Lily of the Incas (Alstroemeria 'Casablanca')

Overview

The elegant Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’, commonly known as the Lily of the Incas, is prized for its exceptionally long-lasting and high-quality blooms, making it a staple in summer gardens and floral arrangements. This cultivar features striking white petals subtly accented with streaks of pale pink, yellow, and deep red markings. As a South American native hybrid, Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ offers gardeners robust flowering over a long season, providing excellent vertical accent in the landscape.

Growing best as a returning perennial in warmer regions, this Lily of the Incas forms sturdy clumps reaching up to four feet tall. While reliable in Zones 8-10, it provides fantastic seasonal color even when treated as an annual elsewhere. Gardeners appreciate the reliable performance and classic beauty of Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ when provided with consistent moisture and well-draining soil.

These popular hybrids derive their appeal from their vigorous nature, producing stiff flower stems that remain attractive in the vase for up to two weeks. Whether used in borders or cottage scenes, Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ delivers impressive floral impact throughout mid-summer.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Alstroemeriaceae
• Plant Type: Bulb
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8-10
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 3-4 ft
  • Spread: 2-3 ft
• Bloom Time: June to July
• Bloom Description: White
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

Plant Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in the fall for established winter growth in warmer climates. Locate them where they receive full sun, though they appreciate protection from intense afternoon heat in very hot summers. The preferred medium is organically rich, loose, well-drained soil that retains consistent, medium moisture.

Consistent hydration is key to maximizing flower production from this Lily of the Incas. Avoid letting the soil dry out, especially during peak summer heat. While fertilization is not always mandatory, a balanced feeding schedule supports its demanding bloom cycle. Taller flower stalks may require staking to maintain an upright presentation throughout the season.

For gardeners in colder zones (below Zone 8), Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ must be treated as an annual or overwintered indoors. If winter protection is needed, dig the brittle tubers up in the fall and store them in damp potting soil in a cool, dark location. Potted specimens can be brought inside to a sunny window, requiring only modest watering during the off-season.

Landscape Uses

The height and strong vertical habit of Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ make it an excellent addition to the mid-border planting scheme. They provide necessary structure and continuous bloom, blending well with shorter perennials or as an excellent filler between shrubs. Their excellent performance as a cut flower means they are perfect candidates for dedicated cutting gardens, ensuring a steady supply of beautiful white blooms for indoor display.

Consider using this variety near pathways or seating areas where its intricate white and yellow-flushed flowers can be best appreciated up close. Because they require rich, well-drained soil, they integrate seamlessly into cottage garden designs alongside roses, salvias, and other long-season bloomers. The consistent performance of Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ guarantees extended summer interest.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Good Cut

Noteworthy Characteristics

The Alstroemeria genus, native to South America, is famous for providing exceptional commercial cut flowers due to their longevity and stiff stems. The ‘Casablanca’ hybrid specifically stands out with its pristine white petals overlaid with soft yellow and pale pink, punctuated by bold, dark red streaks. This variety reliably produces sturdy, tall flowering stalks reaching up to four feet, enhancing vertical interest in the garden.

Companion Planting

Selecting companions for Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ requires focusing on plants with similar medium water and sun needs. Pair these Lilies of the Incas with plants that thrive in moist, well-drained soil, such as Hostas (in partial shade areas) or vibrant-hued shorter Dahlias. For sunny borders, try combining the crisp white of Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ with dark foliage plants like black Mondo Grass or deep purple Verbena to make the blooms pop visually.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring: Once the danger of frost is past and soil has warmed, it is the ideal time to plant new bulbs or wake up overwintered roots. Gently work compost into the planting area to enrich the soil structure.

Summer: Focus diligently on consistent watering, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist, particularly during hot spells to encourage the best flower production from your Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’. Deadheading spent flower stems promptly will promote the next flush of blooms through July.

Fall: In areas prone to hard freezes, cease heavy watering towards the end of the season to allow tubers to harden slightly before digging or mulching heavily for winter protection.

Potential Problems

Slugs and snails frequently target the tender foliage of Alstroemeria, especially when new growth first emerges in the spring. Monitoring plants early in the season and applying appropriate bait or barrier methods can prevent significant leaf damage. Additionally, spider mites occasionally become an issue, particularly when the plant experiences heat stress or dry conditions. Increasing humidity around the plant or applying insecticidal soap can manage these sap-sucking pests effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Lily of the Incas suitable for?

Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ is reliably winter hardy in USDA Zones 8 through 10, though some gardeners report success down to Zone 7 with heavy mulch and protection.

How large does Lily of the Incas grow?

This hybrid typically reaches a mature height between 3 and 4 feet, spreading moderately to between 2 and 3 feet wide.

When does Lily of the Incas bloom?

You can expect the showy, white blooms of Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ to appear throughout the blooming season from June into July.

What sun exposure does Lily of the Incas need?

This plant performs best situated in full sun, but it appreciates afternoon shade, especially in regions experiencing intensely hot summers.

Conclusion

For gardeners seeking reliable, tall, and sophisticated summer color, Alstroemeria ‘Casablanca’ remains an excellent choice due to its exceptional performance both in the garden and as a long-lasting cut flower. Achieving success with this Lily of the Incas depends heavily on providing rich soil and consistent, medium moisture throughout the growing season. Before planting, confirm that your site falls within USDA Zones 8 to 10, or prepare to treat it as a valued summer annual.