Alstroemeria
Trumpet-shaped flowers in loose clusters at stem ends. Various colors including white, yellow, red, orange, pink and purple.
Family: Liliaceae
Species: Alstroemeria spp.
Origin: Native of the South American Andes
Symbolizes: Devotion, friendship, wealth, fortune, and prosperity
Also Known As: Peruvian Lily, Lily of the Incas
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38 F (1-3C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 7-14 days
What to Look for When Purchasing
At least one flower per stem should be open (petals are beginning to reflex) at time of harvest, no leaf yellowing, stronger stems.
Foam Info
Flowers have softer stems which could be damaged when inserted into foam. Possible stem- end discoloration. Leaf yellowing can be a problem in foam.
Design Tips
Alstroemerias are versatile flowers--in both color and form. Always a perfect color highlight for seasonal vase arrangements, they also serve as lovely line flowers in more contemporary arrangements, and--in a short-stemmed cluster--as vivid focal areas. It is often advisable to strip the foliage, since it will yellow long before the flowers fade. The stems are softer, handle carefully. If cared for properly, Alstroemeria can have a very long shelf life. In any arrangement, associate with other flowers that have similar vase life characteristics.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Most varieties are sensitive to ethylene. Symptoms include flower wilting, petal shattering, water-soaked appearance of petals and leaf yellowing.
Pest & Disease Information
Botrytis on leaves and flowers. Alternaria on leaves. Practice good disease control regime during growing phase. Use anti-Pathogen Transport Paper sheets during shipping and storage.
Troubleshooting
Leaf yellowing: Can be prevented with proper conditioning product. Petal and flower drop: Can be prevented with an ethylene action inhibitor product. Fading of petals during consumer phase: Use flower food.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Alstroemeria, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.