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Peruvian Lily Wikimedia Commons
Alstroemeriaceae

Peruvian Lily

Alstroemeria aurea

Devoted friendship and mutual support.

Family
Alstroemeriaceae
Genus
Alstroemeria
Native to
Chile, Argentina, South America
Bloom season
Late Spring, Summer
Type
tuberous herbaceous perennial
Height
30–90 cm
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
well-drained, fertile
Water
moderate
Hardiness
7–10
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The leaves are resupinate — they twist 180 degrees so the underside faces up, a rare botanical feature.
  • Named after Swedish botanist Baron Claus von Alstromer, a student of Linnaeus who collected seeds in South America.
  • They are one of the longest-lasting cut flowers, remaining fresh in a vase for up to two weeks.
  • Modern breeding has produced over 190 cultivars in nearly every color, making them a florist staple worldwide.
  • Unlike most flowers that are pulled from soil, alstroemeria stems should be pulled (not cut) from the base to encourage more blooms.

Color meanings

Orange

passion and energy

Yellow

happiness and good fortune

Pink

playful friendship

White

purity and support

Uses

  • cut flowers
  • border perennial
  • container gardening
  • floral arrangements