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Description
Alstroemeria Aurea, commonly known as the Golden Inca, is a beautiful flowering plant native to the Andes mountains in South America. It belongs to the Alstroemeriaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its vibrant and showy blooms. The plant produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red, which make it a favorite among gardeners and florists alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Alstroemeriaceae |
| Genus | Alstroemeria |
Appearance
Alstroemeria Aurea can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The plant has long, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The flowers are borne in clusters on top of tall, sturdy stems and have six petals that are fused at the base to form a tube. Each petal is marked with dark spots or streaks, giving the flower an exotic and unique appearance. The plant blooms from spring to summer and is a great addition to any garden or floral arrangement.
Care Guide
Alstroemeria Aurea requires regular care to thrive and produce healthy blooms. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot and other problems.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.
- Soil: Plant Alstroemeria Aurea in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer blooms.
- Hardiness Zones: Alstroemeria Aurea is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10. It can be grown as an annual in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alstroemeria Aurea is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can infest the plant and cause yellowing leaves and webbing.
- Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on the plant’s leaves, causing them to turn brown and curl.
- Fungal diseases: Alstroemeria Aurea is prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water, sunlight, and nutrition. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly with organic or chemical controls as needed.
Habitat
Alstroemeria Aurea is native to the Andes mountains in South America, where it grows in moist, well-draining soils at elevations of up to 4,000 meters. The plant is adapted to cool, temperate climates with moderate rainfall and can tolerate occasional frost. In cultivation, the plant can be grown in a variety of soil types and climates as long as its basic requirements are met.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Alstroemeria Aurea toxic to humans or pets?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to humans or pets. However, some people may be allergic to the plant’s sap, which can cause skin irritation and other symptoms.
Q: Can Alstroemeria Aurea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under artificial lights. However, it may not bloom as profusely as it would outdoors.
Q: How often should I deadhead Alstroemeria Aurea?
A: Deadhead the plant regularly by removing spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Do this as often as needed throughout the growing season.
Q: Can Alstroemeria Aurea be divided?
A: Yes, the plant can be divided every 2-3 years in spring or fall. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, replanting each section in a new location.
Related Plants
- Alstroemeria psittacina
- Alstroemeria ligtu
- Alstroemeria pulchella
- Alstroemeria pelegrina
References
- “Alstroemeria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c728.
- “Alstroemeria aurea.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Alstroemeria_aurea.
- “Alstroemeria aurea – Golden Inca.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/alstroemeria-aurea-golden-inca.
