Flower of the Day - Alstroemeria

Name: Alstroemeria

Botanical Name: Alstroemeria cvs.

Common Name: Peruvian lily

Plant Type: Perennial, Flowering Cut Plant

Blooming Time: June - August

Vase Life: 7 – 14 days

Storage Temperature: 30 to 33 degrees F

Ethylene sensitivity: Are Ethylene Sensitive

Height: 30 cm

Spread: 40 cm

Plant Spacing: 34-40 cm

Special Care Instructions:

Does well in Full sun, Full shade, Partial Shade.

Alstroemeria thrives in well-drained soil.

Don’t let soil become too dry, however, because they produce the most blooms when the soil is kept moist.

Spread 2 to 3 inches of mulch such as compost or shredded bark around the plant in spring. Mulch enriches the soil, keeps the roots cool, and extends the blooming period. Replace the mulch as it decomposes or blows away.

Cut Flower Care:

Remove any leaves that may be under water.

While holding the stems under water in a sink or under running water, cut about one inch off each stem with a sharp knife or shears. DO NOT let the newly cut end dry off before transferring it into another container.

If buds appear to be very tight, submerging them in warm water will promote opening.

Water to which a floral preservative solution has been added should be used to arrange fresh cut Alstroemeria in. Using it as recommended will provide additional days of vase life. Try to avoid using water from a water softener.

Immediately after the stems are cut, place your Alstroemeria in a clean, deep vase of warm preservative solution (about 100 degrees F). Allow several hours to condition them before arranging.

Temperature is a key factor in the lifespan of all flowers. Display your fresh cut Alstroemeria arrangements in a cool area out of direct sunlight and drafts.

Alstroemerias are thirsty flowers. It is important to check to see that the vase is full and add preservative solution as needed. If arranged in floral foam, be sure it is completely saturated and the container is full daily.

Fun Facts:

Resembling a miniature lily, Alstroemeria, often called the Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas, was named after its discoverer, Baron Claus von Alstromer, a Swedish baron who collected the seeds on a trip to Spain in 1753. Today, this popular flower can be found in a range of colors – from white to golden yellow, orange to apricot, pink to red, lavender and purple. Symbolizing friendship and devotion, the Alstroemeria’s leaves grow upside down, with the leaf twisting as it grows out from the stem, so that the bottom is facing upwards – much like the twists, turns and growth of our friendships.