Bomarea Edulis

Description

Bomarea Edulis, commonly known as Peruvian Lily or Climbing Alstroemeria, is a flowering plant native to the Andean regions of South America. It belongs to the family Alstroemeriaceae and is a popular ornamental vine plant due to its beautiful flowers and edible tubers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Bomarea Edulis is a deciduous vine plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has long, slender stems that twine around supporting structures such as trellises or fences. The leaves are dark green, narrow, and lance-shaped with a pointed tip. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and range in color from pink to red with yellow throats. They bloom in clusters from late spring to early fall. The plant produces edible underground tubers that are elongated and reddish-brown in color.

Care Guide

Bomarea Edulis is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. It prefers moderate watering and regular fertilization during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). However, it may require protection during extreme cold weather.

Water

Water Bomarea Edulis moderately, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the topsoil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.

Fertilization

Fertilize Bomarea Edulis with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.

Soil

Plant Bomarea Edulis in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good drainage.

Sunlight

Bomarea Edulis prefers full sun exposure to thrive. However, it can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Bomarea Edulis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Bomarea Edulis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. It can also develop fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, maintain good hygiene, and provide adequate airflow around the plant.

Habitat

Bomarea Edulis is native to the Andean regions of South America, where it grows in the wild along forest edges and in disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Bomarea Edulis a hardy plant?

A: Yes, Bomarea Edulis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Q: How often should I water Bomarea Edulis?

A: Water Bomarea Edulis moderately, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the topsoil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.

Q: Can I eat the tubers produced by Bomarea Edulis?

A: Yes, the tubers produced by Bomarea Edulis are edible and are a traditional food source in South America.

Q: Does Bomarea Edulis attract bees and butterflies?

A: Yes, Bomarea Edulis produces attractive flowers that are known to attract bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Bomarea Aurea
• Bomarea Caldasii
• Bomarea Hirtella
• Bomarea Salsilla

References

• “Bomarea Edulis (Climbing Alstroemeria).” Gardenia. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/bomarea-edulis-climbing-alstroemeria.
• “Bomarea Edulis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c553.
• “Bomarea Edulis.” PlantFiles. Accessed 16 August 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/123157/.