Alstroemeria pelegrina aka Peruvian Lily

Alstroemeria pelegrina belongs to the Alstroemeriaceae family. It is a herbaceous perennial: a plant with soft stems that lives for years. Common names include Peruvian lily and lily of the Incas. Sources place its native range in Chile and Peru. Records from Chile name Coquimbo and Valparaíso. It grows on dunes near the sea and grassy ground. It also grows on rocky slopes and land with shrubs. Gardeners grow it for its flowers, including near the coast. People also gather it from the wild for food.

The plant grows from a tuberous rootstock, a thick base below ground. It sends up a group of upright stems. Sources give heights of about 1.6–2 feet [0.5–0.6 metres]. One gives a spread of about 2 feet [0.6 metres]. The roots spread and form a larger clump over time. These fleshy roots break with ease, so move plants with care. The supplied species accounts say little about leaves or flower colour. PFAF gives a bloom time of July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen between the flowers.

Give it rich soil that drains well but holds moisture. Sandy and loamy soils suit it. Soil can be slightly acid, neutral, or slightly alkaline. PFAF suggests sun or light shade in a warm spot. Useful Tropical Plants favours part shade. Both sources call for soil that stays moist in summer. Useful Tropical Plants says established plants cope well with drought. A border with shelter makes a good garden site. The plant copes with coastal exposure, which adds value near the sea.

Reports differ on how much cold it can take. Treat them with care. PFAF lists USDA zones 8–11 and possible survival near −10°C. That account also cites a report of surviving only light frost. Useful Tropical Plants says it cannot survive freezing. These reports give no firm promise of frost safety. PFAF advises deep planting while the plant rests. It also calls for mulch to guard against winter cold. Divide with care, as the roots dislike disturbance. PFAF suggests division in April or October to make new plants. Each piece needs a growth bud.

PFAF lists cooked roots as food and a source of starch. This does not mean the whole plant is safe to eat. Fresh sap can cause a skin rash in sensitive people. Those who react to tulip sap may react to this plant too. PFAF lists no known uses in medicine. The supplied accounts name no specific pests or diseases.