Common name:Ligtu Peruvian Lily
Botanical name:Alstroemaria ligtu hybrids
The decidupous rhizomes of this Peruvian lily will often run aggressively if not controlled. They grow best in full to part sun with some summer watering in dry climates. The florist strains can reach 6' tall, while the compact strains range from 12-36" For extra long, florist quality stems, stake or grow through netting for support. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Common name:Blue Puya; Turquoise Puya
Botanical name:Puya alpestris ssp. zoellneri
These gigantic terrestrial bromeliads are quite dramatic in and of themselves but their flowers are unforgettable. The inflorescence is typically 6.5' - 13' tall with many side-branches. The lower part of each branch is densely packed with large flowers of an incredible metallic blue-green color, which contrasts strikingly with the orange pollen. Flowering time is spring with blooms lasting for several months. Foliage is beautiful but armed with thorns. Established plants are drought tolerant and require little maintenance. It does best in full sun with well draining, gravel soil.
Designer: UC Berkeley
Photographer: Vicki Anderson
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.
