Liliaceae

Alstroemeria

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Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria 'Casablanca'

This genus includes 50 or so perennial species from mountains and grassland in South America. Often grown as cut flowers, Alstroemeria have colorful, funnel-shaped flowers, often with contrasting markings. The plants form clumps up to 2 feet across. The grayish green leaves are only 3 to 5 inches long, but the flower spikes can reach 3 feet in some species. Use in a mixed or perennial border, alpine house, or cutting garden.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsShowy, funnel-shaped flowers. Good cut flowers. Contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies.

CareIn the garden, grow in moist but well-drained, fertile soil in sun or part shade. Plant 8 inches deep in late summer or early fall. Mulch for the first couple of years. Plants resent disturbance.

PropagationAs soon as seeds are ripe, sow in containers in a cold frame. Plant out the seedlings by the potful to minimize disturbance to the tubers. Divide in fall or very early spring.

ProblemsGray mold, viruses, spider mites, slugs.

Species and cultivars

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