Inca Lily, Amancay

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 10°F (-12°C)

Heat Tolerance: Needs afternoon shade in hot areas

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade

Origin: Chile, Argentina

Growth Habits: Upright perennial, up to 3 feet tall (90 cm), 3 feet spread (90 cm)

Flowers: Yellow or light orange flowers

Watering Needs: Regular water, likes well drained soil, constantly moist.

Propagation: Seeds or divisions in early spring

Blooming Habits:
The Alstroemeria has funnel shaped in summer. Although the wild Alstroemerias are yellow ("aurantiaca" means yellow in Latin), the flowers of the cultivated varieties are hybrids come in a range of rich pink and orange colors. They are excellent cut flowers. Twist the flowering stem off the rhizome instead of cutting it. This encourages new stems.

Culture:
The clumps of Alstroemeria take a while to establish themselves. Avoid disturbing them. Once established, they develop rapidly. In the coldest part of the range, or on cold winters protect the dormant bulbs by covering the ground with pit moss or other acid mulch.
They prefer an acidic soil rich in organic matters.