Friday, May 6, 2011

The underrated alstroemeria

Oh sure, we all love peonies, tulips and roses. And around this time of year there are a lot of blog posts and photos of these classic beauties.  

But this week I'm changing my ways and opening my doors and vases to the Alstroemeria.


Do you even know what an alstroemeria is? I wouldn't, had it not been the favorite flower of an old boyfriend who liked them since they are so affordable. He never actually gave me any-just told me their name and mentioned that he liked them.  



Year after year I've walked right past the very inexpensive yet sizable bouquets that are always available and come in so many appealing colors. Sure, I've known all along that they last probably twice as long as your basic cut flower and I'd even venture to guess two to three times longer than the prissy peony.  They're always the filler flower in florists bouquets that are the last to fade. 


For some reason I bought a bunch this week. I'm trying to bring some color into my kitchen and thought, why not?  

I divided the $5 bouquet and plopped them into my milk glass urns that were looking very empty. Perfect! 


They usually look very underwhelming in the grocery store. But since getting them settled in they've opened up and are really pretty. 


From now on I will be bringing home Alstroemeria more often (also known as Peruvian Lily, Lily of the Incas or Parrot Lily)  though not THAT often because they last so long.  

I'm not declaring and all out floral revolution here, all I am saying is that you peony lovers out there should give the Alstroemeria a chance!   



 while we wait for our peonies to bloom.....


6 comments:

the gardener's cottage said...

i was just at trader's and they always have tons of it. i love it b/c i'm cheap and it is pretty. a perfect combo. it looks really pretty in the milkglass too.

happy mothers day to you.

xo
janet

ps - just got the bracelets today and i love them! thanks!

Bonnie said...

I love them! My peonies have bloomed and gone. I may have to head to the market tomorrow! Hugs! Bonnie

pve design said...

Really, you have such a green thumb~ Love how you find little pretties inside and out...from your garden to your gems.
Happy Mother's Day to you!
Love my new necklaces....wow!
pve

Kate said...

I buy them all the time - I love how long they last and they are so affordable. Nothing frustrates me more than shelling out $ for a bouquet that lasts 2 days!
Your mantle looks pretty. Happy Mother's Day!

Silver Magpies said...

Hi Julie -

You make a great case for them, and they do look lovely in your milk glass vases on the mantle...but I'm going to sit tight and wait for my peonies! ;~)

About Last Weekend said...

I totally agree! You hit the nail on the head, underwhelming in the grocery store but great when you get them home They also look great with other flowers and leaves, whether the look is modern or traditional.