Peruvian Lily Alstroemeria 'Phoenix' (v)

Water

Water the Peruvian Lily moderately, ensuring consistent moisture but avoiding waterlogged conditions. During the active growing season, typically spring through summer, water the plant deeply once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons, depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions. In the cooler months, reduce watering to every other week, monitoring the soil moisture; it should dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important that the soil drains well.

Light

Peruvian Lilies thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. They should be placed where they can receive morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun as it can scorch the leaves. A spot near an east-facing window or under the light shade of a tree is ideal for outdoor plants.

Temperature

Peruvian Lilies prefer temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Conversely, they can withstand occasional highs up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but consistently hot temperatures can stress the plant.

Pruning

Prune Peruvian Lilies to remove spent flower stems and encourage repeat blooming. Cut back the entire stem at the base after the flowers have faded, which can be done periodically throughout the blooming season. In late fall or early winter, after the growing season has ended, trim back any dead or yellow foliage to tidy up the plant and prepare it for dormancy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Peruvian Lily thrives in a fertile, well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6 to 7. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve texture and nutrient content.

Repotting

Peruvian Lily should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Avoid disturbing the roots too much during repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Peruvian Lily prefers moderate to high humidity levels, but can tolerate average household humidity conditions. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The Peruvian Lily 'Phoenix' begins its life cycle as a tuberous rhizome planted in early spring. Following sprouting, it enters a vegetative stage characterized by the growth of elongated, lance-shaped, green leaves and the development of a strong stem structure. As the plant matures, flower buds develop at the stem tips, leading to the blooming stage where vibrant flowers showcasing a mix of red, orange, and yellow hues emerge, typically in late spring or early summer. After pollination, which may be assisted by insects attracted to the blooms, the plant produces a dry, capsule-like fruit containing seeds. Post blooming, energy is redirected to the roots for tuber strengthening during the plant's dormant period in winter. If conditions are not suitable for seed development or if propagation by division is preferred, the plant will continue its life cycle the following season by the resumption of vegetative growth from the rhizomes.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Alstroemeria 'Phoenix', commonly known as Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas, is best propagated by division of rhizomes. This process tends to be most successful when carried out in the spring as the plant comes out of dormancy and begins to show new growth. When dividing, carefully lift the clump of rhizomes from the ground using a spade or fork, ensuring minimal damage is done to the roots and shoots. Once removed, gently tease apart individual rhizomes that have at least one or two growth points or 'eyes'. You can then replant these divisions immediately, maintaining a depth where the top of the rhizome is approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) below the soil surface. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. This method allows gardeners to propagate and spread their Alstroemeria 'Phoenix' effectively, maintaining the health and vigor of the original plant.