Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria
Family: Alstroemeriaceae · Also called Peruvian Lily, Lily of the Incas, Parrot Lily
Green & Fresh · Summer bloomer
Alstroemeria, the Peruvian lily, is a modern cut-flower phenomenon. Its orchid-like blooms, striped and freckled in every color combination imaginable, last up to three weeks in a vase, making it one of the most commercially successful flowers of the last century. The plants spread by underground rhizomes, creating increasingly lush clumps each year.
friendship, devotion, mutual support
In the Victorian language of flowers, alstroemeria means “Devoted friendship”. Named by Linnaeus for his friend Baron Claus von Alströmer, who collected the seeds in South America. Alstroemeria has become one of the top five cut flowers sold worldwide due to its incredible vase life, often lasting 2-3 weeks. Each flower's petals are twisted 180° at the base, a trait called resupination.
Did You Know?
Alstroemeria petals are upside-down, each petal twists 180° at the base so the upper surface faces downward. This trait, called resupination, occurs in orchids too but is rare elsewhere. The plant's leaves also twist, so the undersides face up to catch more light.
Cool mountainous regions of Chile, Peru, and Brazil
Alstroemeria is native to South America. It naturally grows in cool mountainous regions of chile, peru, and brazil.
Scent Profile
“Nearly scentless, alstroemeria is valued for its extraordinary longevity as a cut flower and its orchid-like appearance.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameAlstroemeria
- FamilyAlstroemeriaceae
- Native ToSouth America
- Bloom SeasonSummer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Named by Linnaeus for his friend Baron Claus von Alströmer, who collected the seeds in South America. Alstroemeria has become one of the top five cut flowers sold worldwide due to its incredible vase life, often lasting 2-3 weeks. Each flower's petals are twisted 180° at the base, a trait called resupination.