Peruvian lilies are long-blooming plants that crave full sun and moist but well-drained soil. Also known as alstroemeria, these plants have intricate flowers that closely resemble lilies despite belonging to a different genus. Multiple flowers bloom during the summer on top of a sturdy stem that reaches one to three feet tall. The stems also feature simple, dark green foliage that comes to a point.
Peruvian lilies grow as perennials in zones 7 through 10 but can be found as annuals in cooler climates. Alstroemeria's unique flowers and size make them a good choice for mixed beds, where they add color and texture throughout the summer blooming season.
Photo by Mark Wordy, unmodified, Flickr, copyright CC BY 2.0
Shrubs To Plant With Peruvian Lilies
The showy flowers of Peruvian lilies stand out against the equally showy flowers of rose bushes. Both plants require full sun, slightly acidic soil, and consistent, deep watering, especially as the summer heat kicks in. Roses can be single or double blooms and come in various colors, so select a cultivar that complements the Peruvian lilies. Most roses bloom from late spring through early fall, with flowers lasting 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the variety. Plant Peruvian lilies in front of rose bushes to create a lush backdrop.
Perennials To Plant With Peruvian Lilies
The tall, flowering stems of delphinium stand about two feet tall and bloom during the spring and summer. Delphinium plants require some pruning to continue to look their best, but this effort is rewarded with more blooms. The flowering cones look stunning alongside the individual flowers of the Peruvian lily. The foxtail lily is another tall, flowering plant that complements the look of Peruvian lilies. Foxtail lilies can grow several feet tall and need their space, so plant them near the back of a mixed bed, leaving plenty of room between them and other plants.
Hardy geranium is another option that works well with Peruvian lilies. The deeply lobed foliage provides interesting texture alongside the delicate flowers. Plant hardy geraniums in well-drained soil in a spot that receives full sun. Trim the plants back to encourage more prolific blooming. Hardy geraniums make a nice filler when planted in front of the taller Peruvian lilies.
Photo by K M, unmodified, Flickr, copyright CC BY 2.0
Annuals To Plant With Peruvian Lilies
Lantana is a tender perennial that is often sold as an annual. The tiny flowers bloom in clusters on branched stems, offset by textured medium-green foliage. The smaller lantana blooms balance out the much larger Peruvian lily flowers. Full sun and well-draining soil are vital for lantana care, making this a good companion for Peruvian lilies.
Statice is a popular dried flower, but it also looks lovely during the blooming cycle, which lasts from early summer through the frost. The small, frilly flowers contrast the blooms of the Peruvian lily. Plant statice in full sun and water weekly or when the soil is dry.
Best Companion Plants For Peruvian Lilies in Containers
Salvia can be an annual or a perennial, and both types look amazing planted with Peruvian lilies. Sedum is another low-maintenance plant that works well in a container with Peruvian lilies. The thick, succulent foliage and dainty late-summer flowers provide contrast against the stately Peruvian lilies. Sedum, salvia and Peruvian lilies all require full sun for best performance.
California poppies feature lovely flowers in shades of orange, yellow, red, pink, or white. While the flowers look delicate, these are hardy plants that prefer lots of sun and occasional water, making them an excellent neighbor to Peruvian lilies. Container plants need water more often than plants in the ground, so while salvia, sedum, and California poppies prefer drier conditions than Peruvian lilies, they can all share a container.
Plants Not To Grow With Peruvian Lilies
Peruvian lilies can overtake a space, so feature them with plants that can hold their own, or they will be pushed out. Plants with significantly different care needs are also not a good match for alstroemeria. While hostas and azaleas are lovely plants for shady areas, their care requirements differ too much from Peruvian lilies for these plants to live happily together.
Best Plants To Grow With Peruvian Lilies
Geranium
Lantana
Salvia
Sedum
The most important thing to consider when selecting companion plants for Peruvian lilies is the care requirements. These plants need full to partial sun and regular water to thrive. Roses, statice, and lantana thrive in similar conditions and ensure consistent flowers and a stunning landscape when planted together.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 09-18-2023 |