The Beautiful Exotic Flower That'll Make Coastal Gardens Standout

Between the wind and salt, it can sometimes be challenging to find flowering plants that can thrive near the coast. Luckily, growers in coastal areas with warm winters can enjoy the stunning Alstroemeria. Sometimes called Peruvian lilies, these beautiful flowers are perfect options for gardeners looking to add bright colors and distinctive shapes to their garden. Because they bloom from late spring through fall in many regions, they're an excellent option for providing long-lasting color, as well as a treat for hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Alstroemerias come in a range of colors, from stunning orange flowers to bold purples, so finding some that match your color scheme should be a snap. They also come in various sizes, from large 4-foot varieties to dwarf cultivars that don't grow past 18 inches. They're perfect for anyone who loves cut flowers as well since they have an extremely long vase life, and cutting or deadheading will help encourage the plants to produce more blooms. While not considered invasive in North America, Alstroemerias can be quite aggressive, so you may want to grow them in containers or other areas where their spread can be controlled. 

Regardless of whether you decide to grow your Alstroemerias in containers or the ground, it's important to grow them in fertile and well-draining soil. They bloom best in full sun, though they can also handle part-shade locations and may even benefit from a bit of shade if you live in a very hot region. Native to South America, Alstroemerias are hardy in zones 7 through 10, particularly in the southern U.S., like Florida, and along the West Coast. While you can try digging up and storing the bulbs in colder zones, they are fragile and easily damaged.

Alstroemerias are somewhat drought tolerant but grow and flower best if they receive regular water. They also benefit from staking, especially if you are growing taller cultivars. You can use the same type of metal or bamboo stakes you might use to keep your gladiolus from falling over. Don't forget to wear gloves when working with Alstroemeria plants and tubers, as they are known to cause severe skin irritation.