Peruvian Lily, or Lily of the Incas in Toronto

(Question)

Hello,
I am planning on planting Peruvian Lily, or Lily of the Incas in my backyard.
Would they survive our winter?
I read somewhere that Peruvian Lily, or Lily of the Incas will only survive in Plant Hardness Zone 7 and above.

Also could you please tell me what is Toronto Plant Hardness zone 6 or 7?

Many thanks,
Jon

(Answer)

Hi Jon,

Thank you for your question.

Toronto’s plant hardiness zone is 6a. Within any zone there will be variations, micro-climates,  as some spots are more sheltered than others from the elements. There are some differing opinions about the plant hardiness for Peruvian lilies (Alstroemeria ) in zone 6 and some sites say zone 7 or 8.

Some sources suggest that Alstroemeria  tubers will survive a winter in zone 6 if the plant is heavily mulched.   Other sources suggest that it is best to  dig up the tubers after the first light frost and store them in a plastic bag containing dry peat moss.  Then to place the bag in a dark, cool (32-40°F) location.

Good luck with this pretty plant.

 

Links for further reading:

https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/how-to-grow-alstroemeria-peruvian-lily

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/peruvian-lily/growing-peruvian-lilies.htm

www.thegardenhelper.com/alstroemeria.html