Tuberous Alstroemeria, with their clusters of delicately marked flowers, add a touch of the exotic to any sheltered border. They originate from South America, which is why the common name for them is Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas. Stiff stems and dark green, sword-like leaves, come from the fleshy tubers. Then, from early summer, and often until autumn, the Alstroemeria flowers keep coming, generally in shades of orange, pink and yellow, and all with attractive markings.

The best place to plant alstroemerias is in a sheltered border, protected from the worst of the wind. These plants are happy in a sunny or lightly shaded place. The soil should be free-draining—the one thing that Peruvian lilies hate is a cold, waterlogged soil. Also, choose a place where they can remain undisturbed for several years.

Alstroemeria stems are regularly used by flower arrangers and florists. They last a long time in water if picked when the buds are just starting to open.