Lily of the Incas: A Striking Non-Native Addition to Your Garden
If you’re looking for a flower that’s as eye-catching as it is exotic, the lily of the Incas (Alstroemeria psittacina) might just be the showstopper your garden needs. With its vibrant red-orange petals tipped in bright yellow, this perennial looks like it borrowed its color scheme straight from a tropical parrot – which is exactly how it earned its species name psittacina, meaning parrot-like.
What Makes Lily of the Incas Special?
This stunning forb brings a touch of South American flair to gardens with its distinctive flowers that seem to glow in the landscape. The lily of the Incas is a herbaceous perennial that lacks woody stems, instead growing from underground rhizomes year after year. Its flowers are truly the star of the show, featuring curved petals in brilliant red-orange hues with contrasting yellow tips that create an almost flame-like appearance.
Where Does It Come From and Where Can You Find It?
Originally hailing from Brazil, this non-native beauty has made its way to the southeastern United States. Currently, you can find established populations growing wild in Louisiana and Mississippi, where the warm, humid climate suits its subtropical preferences perfectly.
Is Lily of the Incas Right for Your Garden?
Before you fall head over heels for those gorgeous blooms, there are a few things to consider:
- Climate Requirements: This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it perfect for gardeners in the Deep South and subtropical regions
- Non-Native Status: While it’s not currently listed as invasive, it’s worth noting that this plant can reproduce and spread naturally in suitable climates
- Garden Style: It works beautifully in tropical-themed gardens, mixed borders, or container plantings
Growing Lily of the Incas Successfully
If you decide to give this exotic beauty a try, here’s what you need to know:
Location and Light: Choose a spot that gets partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade will help prevent stress during the peak summer months.
Soil Needs: Well-draining soil is absolutely essential. These plants hate soggy feet and will quickly rot in waterlogged conditions. A slightly acidic to neutral pH works best.
Planting Tips: Plant the rhizomes in spring after the last frost danger has passed. Place them about 2-3 inches deep and space them 12-18 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Care and Maintenance: Keep the soil moderately moist but not wet. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and protect the rhizomes during cooler periods. Every 3-4 years, you can divide the clumps to prevent overcrowding and create new plants.
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
One of the best reasons to consider lily of the Incas is its appeal to pollinators. Those bright, nectar-rich flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies, adding movement and life to your garden beyond just the beautiful blooms.
Consider Native Alternatives
While lily of the Incas can be a stunning addition to suitable gardens, you might also want to explore native alternatives that provide similar benefits. Consider these southeastern native options:
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) for similar red coloring and hummingbird appeal
- Turk’s cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii) for bright red flowers
- Fire pink (Silene virginica) for vibrant red blooms
The Bottom Line
Lily of the Incas offers undeniable beauty with its parrot-bright flowers and reliable perennial growth. If you live in zones 9-11 and want to add some tropical flair to your garden, it can be a wonderful choice. Just remember to garden responsibly by keeping an eye on its spread and considering native alternatives that support local ecosystems. With proper care and the right growing conditions, this South American beauty can bring years of spectacular blooms to your landscape.
