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Gardening is growing as a profession and hobby because of the peace it provides to the soul. Many gardeners have their favorite plants, and Alstroemeria problems are one of them. It has this vibrant color and exotic-looking blooms and is known for adding a touch of elegance to the outdoor space. They can work as an eye-catcher if grown with the right care and attention. If you are a beginner in gardening and do not know much about this plant, then below are some important points that will help you out.
We will learn whether Alstromeria is perennial or annual.
About Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria is a plant that grows and starts thriving in summer and lasts till the end of the fall season. Sometimes, it also grows during spring (depending on the temperature and climate). These flowers are mainly native to South America and are found there abundantly (especially in Chile and Brazil). Apart from Alstroemeria, it has two other names, “Lily of the Incas” and “Peruvian Lily.”
These plants are known for producing vibrant color, lily-like flowers that grow up to two or three feet with strong stems. These lilies have various symbolisations like devotion, commitment, and friendship. The name “Alstroemeria” comes from a Swedish baron, Claus von Alstromer, who introduced these flowers to Europe in the 1700s, and since then, it has become the top choice of florists.
What is Annual and Perennial?
Before knowing whether Alstroemeria is annual or perennial, it is necessary to know what they are.
Annual
A plant is said to be annual when it completes the whole of its lifecycle from planting seeds, growing, flowering, and producing seeds in a whole year or season. This is their entire lifecycle. Some of the famous examples of annuals are marigolds, zinnias, or petunias.
Perennial
Perennials last more than annual plants i.e. two years, several years to decades. Sometimes even longer. This is because, unlike annuals, they grow from the same rootstock year after year, with some dying in winter (mostly) and regenerating during the spring season. Some examples of perennials are roses, Alstroemeria, tulips, and daffodils.
Is Alstroemeria Annual or Perennial?
Alstroemeria is commonly known as “Peruvian Lily” or “Lily of the Lucas”. As discussed above perennial plants are those that live for more than two years, and so is Alstroemeria cause they continue to grow and bloom within the same condition year after year. Point to note that not all but the majority of Alstroemeria plants remain green even in warm climates till the arrival of the bloom period.
Alstroemeria cannot survive the winter season and produce new growth in the spring season, and it might die because of the winter season. So, we can say that Alstroemeria works as an annual in places with harsh winters.
How to Grow Alstroemeria?
Growing Alstroemeria is easy but still requires some skills and carefulness. The first thing to do is choose the right location where they can get ample sunlight. If you live in a place with hotter climates, then you can install some afternoon shade protecting the plants from scorching sun. Now prepare the soil where the pH is slightly acidic to neutral (between 6 to 7). After that, plant your Alstroemeria, water it daily, and provide all the care that a plant needs.
Conclusion
At last, you can plant Alstroemeria as an outdoor space to create a colorful and elegant environment. Just take care of them properly by providing them with enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Alstroemeria may be beautiful, but they are sensitive plants and require a lot of care during the process of growing. So it would be better if you do your research about the plant before planting.
Do you have an Alstroemeria plat at your home? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Will Alstroemeria Last?
As most of the Alstroemeria plants are perennial, alstroemeria flowers last for about a week. Moving on to the blooms, they last for about 2 weeks. Remember to handle them with care cause they are very sensitive. Any kind of carelessness will lead to flower fall or transparent leaves.
Can Alstroemeria Be a House Plant?
This depends upon the kind of flower you have. Some of them are suitable enough to be a houseplant, while some are not suitable to be kept inside the house. Providing them enough sunlight, water, and other necessities is important.
What Season is Alstroemeria Planted?
Most of the Alstroemeria tubers are planted in spring, early summer, or fall. Summers can be different all around the globe but the suitable temperature is when the temperature does not exceed 20 degrees Celsius. Tip: soak them for 24 hours before planting.
Can I Grow Alstroemeria from Cuttings?
Growing Alstroemeria from cutting is the easiest method in comparison to growing it from seed. Because in this method you just have to cut a part of the already grown plant and then plant them and keep them well fed and watered.
