Uniqueness of Alstroemeria

Striped and inverted petals along with a variety of colours give that distinct feel and appeal to the gorgeous alstroemerias.

History of Alstroemeria

Alstroemerias are also commonly referred to as Peruvian lilies or lily of the Incas. This flower is a genus of flowering plants that come from the family Alstroemeriaceae. All the flower species of this family are native to South America. The flowers that grow in Chile in South America are winter growing plants, and the flowers that grow in Brazil in South America are summer growing plants. The flower is named after Swedish botanist Baron Von Alstrmer who discovered this flower in the 18th century and introduced it to Europe.

Alestoemeria Symbolism and Significance in Bouquet

Alstroemeria flowers symbolize friendship and devotion which makes it one of the best flowers for every close relationship. The twist in flower is a symbol of trials and tribulations of friendship. So if you cherish a long-lasting friendship with a close buddy, your family members, a special friend or your girlfriend, this flower can be presented as gifts.

Since a stem of the plant holds about 6 to 8 flowers, alstroemerias make a flower bouquet look bountiful. They are the perfect choice for arrangements as they add colours to any interior. The good vase life of the flowers makes them a perfect gifting choice. They look best with large headed flowers and spray roses which have a contrasting tone. Adding gypsophila to a flower bouquet consisting of these flowers will make it look classy and luxurious.

Alstroemeria Planting Tips

Soil and Site for the plant

Plant alstroemerias in a sheltered site either in part shade or full sun. All alstroemerias need plenty of organic matter at their roots for optimal growth.

Space required

Plant at least 60cm apart.

In the garden

Always stake these plants so that they don't collapse in the wind or rain. Keep picking the flowers or deadheading. Make sure to pull them rather than cutting. This will leave plenty of room for the next generation to grow and give you a more productive plant.

For growing in containers

Pot these plants into generous 5-litre pots. Once the flowers start to shoot in spring, feed them and water well. This will give you an almost continual flower harvest. Always pull from the root, and they will continue to flower for months

Aftercare of the Plants

Sunlight

The Alstroemeria plant requires at least six hours of morning sunlight.

Soil and water

Mulch well around but not on the top of plants.

Water well until the soil is completely moist and take care that the soil is well drained.

Caring for Cut Flowers

Re-cut stems at an angle while placing your flowers in a vase

Remove any leaves that may sit underneath the waterline as the removal leaves from the stem encourage water to go towards the flower head.

Fill a clean vase with cool water and add flower food before placing your flowers in a vase.

Change the water every 3-4 days while trimming the stems each time.

For best results, display alstroemeria in the cool and shady spot. Avoid keeping your flower vase near ripening fruit or positioning them in direct sunlight.

Caution: Alstroemeria might cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Interesting Facts about Alstroemeria

Alstroemerias bloom during late spring or early summer.

The flower is available in all colours except blue and green.

There are about 122 species of this flowering plant.

Most modern hybrid Alstroemeria plants are propagated in a laboratory by cross-breeding between species from Chile (winter-growing) with species from Brazil (summer-growing)

There are about 190 cultivars of Alstroemeria have been developed to date.

Alstroemeria blooms have no fragrance.

Alstroemeria flowers have a long vase life of about three weeks.

Not all Alstroemeria flowers comprise of striped petals.

Alstroemeria plant stops producing flowers if they get too hot.