Peruvian lily, Inca lily
Alstroemeria pelegrina
Family: Alstroemeriaceae
What it is like
A perennial plant. It has underground rhizomes. It grows 30-60 cm high and spreads 20-40 cm across. There are separate leafy and flowering stems from the underground rhizome. The leaves are 8 cm long. The flowers are in small clusters. They are white or pink with a yellow centre and purple-red flecks. The seed capsules open suddenly spreading seed.
There are about 50-80 Alstroemeria species. They occur in South America especially in cool mountain regions.
Where it is found
It grows naturally in sand dunes along the coast in Chile and Peru. It requires a moist well drained soil and a warm situation. They can grow in seaside gardens. It suits a Mediterranean climate. It is resistant to frost but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 9-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Canada, Chile, North America, Peru, South America
How it is used for food
The root is cooked and eaten.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
Plant roots 15-20 cm deep when dormant. Plants can be grown from seed. Stored seed need to be treated by soaking in warm water for 12 hours before planting. Plants do not transplant easily.