Species inca lily
pink-yellow flowers with pink stamens and lime leaves and stems

inca lily

Alstroemeria ligtu subsp. incarnata

The Inca Lily, Alstroemeria ligtu subsp. incarnata, is an amazing plant species packed with unique features. Its flowers grow in clusters of vibrant, multi-colored petals organized in a gentle cup shape on long stems. The Inca Lily is renowned for having the longest vase life of any cut flower, meaning they can last up to two weeks after they have been picked. Besides flowers, the Inca Lily produces edible seed pods that taste like potatoes when cooked. It is considered a hearty and low maintenance plant, needing only regular watering and pruning to thrive. With its distinct colors, incredible endurance, and edible bounty, the Inca Lily is truly a must-have for any garden.

Cycle:

Annual

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 11

Flowers:

Pink Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water the Inca lily plants about once a week to keep the soil evenly moist. There should be no standing water in the tray or pot. During the active growth period, between spring and autumn, a single deep watering should suffice. During the winter the plants need less water and can generally survive with just 1 or 2 shallow waterings a month. Always check the soil before watering; if it is still moist then wait another few days before watering again.

sunlight

The Inca lily requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. Ideally, it should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, although it can tolerate partial shade. For best results, the Inca lily should receive morning sunlight and some afternoon shade. This will help to prevent the leaves from turning yellow or becoming sunburnt. When planted in a warm, sunny location, it will produce a profusion of flowers throughout the summer months.

pruning

Inca lilies should be pruned annually in early spring. Remove any dead or damaged foliage, stems, buds, and seedpods. Cut stems back to just above the basal foliage, leaving 2 to 3 leaves per stem. Pruning and deadheading will improve the growth and bloom of the Inca lilies and keep them healthy. Prune lightly no more than 1/3 of the plant at a time to preserve the full bloomage season.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Inca lilies typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Inca lilies typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map