Alstroemeria is one of my favorite flowers for floral arrangements. The blossoms are available in an astonishing array of colors and are very long-lasting. The flowers look at home in both casual and formal arrangements. Alstroemeria blooms outlive the leaves that are on their stems. I usually remove all the lower leaves and add hardier foliage to the arrangement I am making. When I purchase these flowers, usually at a bargain price from the local grocer, I always look for petals that are slightly closed. They will open in a day or two and should last for at least two weeks.

Alstroemeria is native to South America. You can find some facts and history here: Facts about Alstroemeria

Recently, I removed spent roses from my Christmas centerpiece and replaced them with alstroemeria. The arrangement lasted an extra week. When the pine needles began to drop, I took the alstroemeria out of the oasis, rinsed it, cut the stems an inch or two on the diagonal, and now will enjoy the fully open blooms as a vased arrangement. You can’t beat the beauty or the economy of alstroemeria.

Tip: If you are allergic to latex do not arrange alstroemeria without using protective gloves.