Overview
Alstroemeria pygmaea is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Alstroemeria, part of the Alstroemeriaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Alstroemeria pygmaea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and wildlife gardens.
About
Alstroemeria pygmaea, also known as the peruvian lily, is a species of small monocotyledonous plant in the genus Alstroemeria, and in the family Alstroemeriaceae. A. pygaea was described by William Herbert in 1837. The species leaves are a gray-green color with one deep yellow flowers. The leaves stems are narrow and are twisted at the base with thick tuberous roots. It is native to Argentina Northwest, Bolivia and Peru. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and wildlife gardens. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alstroemeria pygmaea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Alstroemeria
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Alstroemeria pygmaea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Alstroemeria pygmaea
- Propagation
- Propagate by division, in autumn or very early spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to a virus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Alstroemeria pygmaea?
Alstroemeria pygmaea prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Alstroemeria pygmaea need?
Alstroemeria pygmaea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Alstroemeria pygmaea hardy in the UK?
Alstroemeria pygmaea has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Alstroemeria pygmaea?
Propagate by division, in autumn or very early spring.
More in the Alstroemeria genus
- Alstroemeria 'Laguna'
- Alstroemeria 'Nina'
- Alstroemeria diluta subsp. chrysantha
- Alstroemeria isabellana
- Alstroemeria pelegrinalily of the Incas
- Alstroemeria 'Anoushka'
- Alstroemeria 'Athena'
- Alstroemeria 'Bailey's Butterfly'