What Is Alstroemeria?

Alstroemeria, also called Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is a genus of approximately 50 tuberous flowering plants native to South America. Commercial growers cultivate them for the cut flower market, while home gardeners and other enthusiasts grow them for their showy blossoms. Peruvian lilies work well in perennial borders or as container plants depending upon the species and climate, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Identification
Peruvian lily plants can be either deciduous or evergreen depending on the variety. Most plants have a bushy, clumping form, and many reach heights of 2 to 3 feet. Their narrow, lance-shaped, greenish-gray leaves grow between 3 and 5 inches in length. The plants produce tall flower spikes topped with clusters of lily-like blossoms. The large, funnel-shaped flowers vary in color from white to orange, salmon, lavender and pink; many flowers have dark-colored streaks, splotches or blots.

Types
Several types of Alstroemeria include Alstroemeria aurea, also called Alstroemeria aurantica, a variety that produces small yellow or orange blossoms during the summer months; 'Sweet Laura', a hybrid cross between Alstroemeria aurantica and Alstroemeria caryophyllaea, grows between 24 and 30 inches tall, with 4-inch dark-green leaves and aromatic yellow blossoms; and Alstroemeria 'Casablanca' is a tall cultivar that produces white flowers with pinkish throats and red spots. 'Variegata' grows to around 30 inches tall and produces variegated red-and-green blossoms.

Caring for Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria plants vary in their tolerances for cold and heat depending on the species and cultivar. Most plants prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and partial shade or full sunlight. They propagate by bulbs or seeds. Plant the bulbs approximately 8 inches deep during late summer or the beginning of autumn. Start seedlings indoors and transplant during the spring or fall. Plants that grow in harsh winter climates may benefit from a layer of mulch to protect their roots. They need regular water during the growing season.

Considerations
All parts of the Alstroemeria plant are toxic. They contain chemicals called glycosides that cause severe skin irritation; the symptoms include itching, cracking and blistering. Container plants tend to droop and may require staking. Snails and slugs chew holes in Alstroemeria foliage, while spider mites, whiteflies and aphids drain sap from plants. Infested plants may lose vigor or fail to grow properly. Alstroemerias are also susceptible to viruses such as tomato spotted wilt and the Hippeastrum mosaic virus.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/info_8238846_alstroemeria.html