The Meaning Behind the Lily of the Incas

The lily of the incas, also known as the Peruvian lily or alstroemeria, is an exotic flower with a fascinating history and symbolic meaning In this article, we’ll explore the origins, lore, and significance behind this eye-catching bloom

What is the Lily of the Incas?

The lily of the incas specifically refers to the alstroemeria aurea species, native to Peru and Chile. It’s a perennial flower that grows from tubers and produces delicate orchid-like blooms on upright stems, ranging from 1-4 feet tall depending on variety.

The alstroemeria comes in a diverse spectrum of colors like pink, purple yellow orange, red, and white. The blossoms are streaked, flecked and edged with contrasting hues, resulting in a beautifully painted effect.

There are over 200 hybrids and cultivars of alstroemeria bred for the cut flower industry. Some popular varieties include ‘Sweet Laura,’ ‘Princess Eliane,’ ‘Inticancha,’ and ‘Yellow King.’

History and Origins

The lily of the incas holds major cultural significance in its native South America. But it wasn’t introduced to Europe until the late 18th century. Here’s a look at the flower’s fascinating history:

• Andean natives – Indigenous Quechua and Aymara people viewed the alstroemeria as a symbolic, mystical flower associated with prosperity and fortune.

• Incan royalty – According to legend, Incan rulers reserved alstroemerias for adorning royal gardens due to their association with wealth.

• “Discovery” by Europeans – Swedish botanist Claus von Alstroemer “discovered” the flower in 1753 while traveling in Spain, though natives had cultivated it for centuries before.

• Spread beyond South America – Alstroemer brought seeds back to Sweden, and the flower was named alstroemeria in his honor. It gained popularity across Europe as an exotic import.

• Modern breeding – Breeders have crossed wild species to create showier, more colorful hybrids ideal for cut flowers. Major breeding began in the 1980s in the United States and is now focused in the Netherlands.

So while Andean civilizations treasured this flower for ages, it took centuries for Europeans to uncover it and spread it across the globe. Today it remains an iconic flower of South American heritage.

Meaning and Symbolism

So what does this unique bloom represent? Here are the common symbolic meanings associated with the lily of the incas:

• Friendship – The twisting, turning leaves represent the ups and downs of friendships. The striped petals mirror how friends weave in and out of each other’s lives.

• Devotion – Its association with friendship evolved into representing loyalty and devotion. It became a romantic symbol of commitment between lovers.

• Good fortune – True to its Incan roots, the alstroemeria signifies prosperity, success, and abundance. It’s considered a lucky charm.

• Wealth – For ancient Andeans and Incans, the flower symbolized material riches and status.

• Grace – The delicate, speckled blossoms convey an aura of grace, elegance and femininity.

• Aspiration – The upward-reaching stems represent growth, achievement of goals, and fulfillment of dreams.

There are slight variations across bloom colors, but overall the lily of the incas embodies bonds, affection, prosperity, and grace.

Use in Bouquets and Arrangements

The poignant symbolism of the alstroemeria is translated beautifully in floral gifts:

• Friendship bouquets – Mixed arrangements with alstroemerias as fillers convey closeness between friends.

• Romantic gifts – Red or pink alstroemerias in love-themed bouquets speak to passion and commitment.

• Weddings – Its luck and devotion meanings make it perfect for bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, and decor.

• New endeavors – Alstroemerias wish prosperity and success for new homes, businesses or ventures.

• Get well gifts – Its uplifting vibe brightens someone’s spirits while recovering.

• Sympathy – While associated with upbeat themes, alstroemerias can also express graceful devotion when grieving.

There are endless ways to incorporate this meaningful flower into special gifts and floral designs.

Interesting Facts

Beyond the rich symbolism, here are some fascinating facts about the lily of the incas:

• It was named after the Swedish botanist Claus von Alstroemer who introduced it to Europe in 1753.

• The plants thrive in cool, mountainous climates and moist, well-drained soil.

• They grow from rhizomes, not bulbs, allowing them to easily spread and populate an area over time.

• The streaked pattern on the petals is created through a natural process called splotching, unique to alstroemerias.

• The blooms last an exceptionally long time, up to 2-3 weeks with proper care.

• Overzealous breeding removed the flower’s sweet fragrance from most commercial varieties.

• All parts are toxic if ingested due to protective compounds that deter pests.

Growing the Lily of the Incas

Want to grow these Incan treasures yourself? Follow these tips:

• Plant in early spring or fall, depending on your climate. Soak rhizomes before planting.

• Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining, compost-enriched soil.

• Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Plant rhizomes vertically 2 inches below the soil surface.

• Water when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Fertilize in spring and summer. Cut back stems after flowering.

• Divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years. Carefully separate and replant rhizomes 12 inches apart.

• Watch for aphids, thrips and powdery mildew. Control with neem oil, insecticidal soap or sulfur.

With proper care, you can enjoy Peruvian lilies from your own garden for years to come!

Arranging Lilies of the Incas

Looking to include alstroemerias in flower arrangements? Follow these tips:

• Use freshly opened blooms, ideally opened within the past 2-3 days.

• Recut stems and place in water with floral preservative to maximize vase life.

• The flowers pair beautifully with roses, lilies, irises, tulips and other spring blooms.

• Their spray of multiple blooms works great as filler flowers among focal flowers.

• Mix colors for vivid contrast. Try alternating light and dark shades for an ombre effect.

• Display in clear glass vases to showcase the painted petals. Bud vases keep individual stems fresh.

Gift Giving Etiquette

When gifting the lily of the incas, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

• Include a note explaining the meaning behind your floral gift and why you chose this particular flower.

• For special occasions, opt for deeper red/orange shades rather than pastels.

• For romantic interests, combine with other flowers of love like roses. For friends, mix with daisies, lilies, irises.

• For condolences or get well gifts, add other uplifting blooms like carnations, sunflowers or gerberas.

• For new homeowners, a potted alstroemeria plant makes a great housewarming gift to represent prosperity.

The Significance of This Unique Flower

With its storied history, diverse symbolism, and stunning speckled petals, it’s easy to see why the lily of the incas remains a treasured bloom. This guide covers the origins, meanings, uses and lore surrounding the alstroemeria aurea. Beyond its visual beauty, this exotic flower conveys friendship, devotion, fortune and grace.

The next time you shop for flowers, consider this special heirloom flower of the Andes. Let the lily of the incas add its magical meaning and singular flair to your floral gifts and arrangements.