Alstroemeria Inticancha Imala

Asltroemeria Inticancha 'Imala' is a new variety of Peruvian Lily that will not disappoint. Particularly robust, floriferous and compact, the plant continuously produces bicolour lily flowers from June to November, which is soft pink and variegated with white and candy pink (some observers may recognize it as 'Barbie' pink). They are carried by very strong, low stems that are resistant to harsh weather. This plant is less hardy as a perennial but is easy to grow as an annual and requires very little maintenance. It is perfect in flower pots. It thrives in partial shade or full sun, in light, not too dry soil.

Alstroemeria Inticancha Imala is a recent variety, resulting from the hybridization of several tuberous species native to South America, particularly the Chilean Andes. These high-altitude plants belonging to the Alstroemeriaceae family are more or less hardy, appreciate fresh, well-drained soils in lightly wooded and cool areas. Taking a long time to establish, they can disappear or... become invasive! Quirky and fantastic plants, very sensitive to growing conditions, they are "indestructible" once you have found the right spot for them.

Inticancha 'Imala', like almost all plants in the series, is particularly compact and easy to grow in good horticultural soil. The plant quickly forms bushy clumps of leafy stems reaching 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16in) in flower height, with a spread of 30 cm (12in). Flowering occurs continuously from June to October-November. The open flowers are gathered in terminal umbels. They consist of 3 small central petals, white streaked with brown and variegated with light pink and candy pink, surrounded by 3 larger petals, light pink and white with a darker central zone. The heart of the flower is adorned with bright pink stamens. Each plant can produce at least 30 flowers. The foliage is arranged on the upper part of the stems. The leaves of this variety are medium green-blue in colour. The plant disappears in winter, leaving only the trailing stump with fleshy roots underground, which can withstand frosts down to -5/-8°C (23-17.6°F). The plant is sensitive to the shock of transplantation, especially in older plants.

Alstroemeria Inticancha 'Imala' is a superb variety for flowering pots and cut flowers. On the patio or balcony, it forms a colourful bouquet that rivals balcony geraniums in brightness. In borders, this plant pairs well, for example, with grasses; Stipa, small Miscanthus, or Muhlenbergia capillaris will accompany its autumn colours with their magnificent foliage and late-season blooms. You can also plant Ceratostigma plumbaginoides ,with intense blue flowers and red foliage in October, at the base of the plant.  A marvel!

Note: Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them under cover (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) or a few weeks before being installed outdoors once the risk of frost is definitively eliminated.