Peruvian Lily Alstroemeria 'Sirius' (Planet Series)

Water

Peruvian lilies, as Alstroemeria 'Sirius' is commonly known, prefer consistent moisture, so watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this will mean watering about once a week, but this can vary depending on the climate and the season. During the growing season in spring and summer, you might need to water more frequently, especially if it's hot or windy, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Provide about 1 gallon of water per plant to ensure the root zone is thoroughly moistened. Decrease watering in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

Peruvian lilies thrive in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. They do best when protected from the harsh afternoon sun, so a spot that receives morning light with some afternoon shade is ideal. These conditions will promote vibrant blooms and healthy growth without the risk of scorching the foliage.

Temperature

Peruvian lilies are most comfortable in temperatures ranging between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 23 degrees Fahrenheit, though frosts and freezes can damage the plant. The maximum temperature they can handle without stress is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing conditions fall within this temperature range to avoid heat stress and cold damage.

Pruning

Peruvian lilies benefit from pruning to remove spent flowers and encourage reblooming. Deadheading, or cutting off the faded flowers, should be done regularly throughout the flowering season. Additionally, you can cut back the entire plant by about one-third in late summer or early fall to promote fresh growth and additional blooms. The best time for major pruning is after the blooming cycle is over or in early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Peruvian lilies thrive in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, compost or well-rotted manure, and a handful of sand or perlite provides the ideal soil structure for Alstroemeria 'Sirius'. Ensure the soil retains moisture but does not become waterlogged to prevent root rot.

Repotting

Peruvian lilies typically need to be repotted every two to three years. Due to their rhizomatous roots, they prefer to be slightly pot-bound but should be moved to larger pots once they become overcrowded to ensure continual growth and bloom.

Humidity & Misting

Peruvian lilies prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 40-60%. While they tolerate lower humidity levels, maintaining adequate humidity promotes healthy growth and flowering.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and keep at moderate temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, ensure drainage.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Alstroemeria 'Sirius', commonly known as the Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas, begins its life as a dormant rhizome or tuberous root, which will sprout in the spring. Upon sprouting, the plant develops a rosette of foliage and elongated stems that bear lance-shaped leaves. As temperatures rise and the plant matures, clusters of showy, funnel-shaped flowers in a variety of colors, including yellow, red, orange, and white with characteristic streaks and spots, bloom atop the stems. Following pollination, which is aided by bees and other insects, the Peruvian Lily sets seed in capsule-like fruits, although many cultivators propagate the plant vegetatively. After the flowering period, usually late summer to fall, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, with the foliage dying back until the next growth cycle. With appropriate care, including proper winter protection, the Peruvian Lily can re-emerge from its rhizomes year after year to complete its perennial life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Alstroemeria 'Sirius', commonly known as the Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas, can be effectively propagated by division, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate this plant is in the early spring or late fall when the plant is not in its active growing phase. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire clump of the Peruvian Lily from the ground using a shovel or garden fork, ensuring minimal damage to the roots. Gently separate the rhizomes, which are the underground stems, by pulling or cutting them apart, taking care to leave several shoots and a good amount of root on each division. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to settle the soil and help reduce transplant shock. This method allows the grower to increase the number of plants efficiently while maintaining the genetic characteristics of the parent plant.