This is a rare look at the beautiful Alstroemeria isabellana.  This gorgeous South American species is quite different than the common florist's Alstroemeria.  Its radiating sprays of tubular blooms have an eye-catching color combination of pinkish-orange and green.  Each umbel can have 20 or more flowers - possibly the most of any Alstroemeria species.  This is a pretty hard-to-find plant.  I don't know any other U.S. source for it on the web.

Alstroemeria isabellana is a perennial species from southern Brazil to Argentina.  It grows during the summer, and can go dormant or partly dormant in winter.  Its foliage is very attractive.  It has arching shoots that grow about 2 feet long, looking somewhat like bamboo leaves.  In summer, the flower stalks appear, which are about 18 inches tall.  The vibrant blooms are almost 2 inches long, and open a few at a time, for a long flower show.  Each plant can put up several flower stalks during the summer.  This is a true species, not a hybrid.

I don't have much information on its climate preferences.  I believe it comes from subtropical areas that are usually below 85 degrees.  It's possible that it may lag if temperatures are consistently above the upper 80s.  It rarely gets that warm where i am, so i can't say for sure.  The underground rhizomes probably can take at least down to 25 degrees if planted deep.  It grows well indoors in a pot, and may stay evergreen if grown inside.  It enjoys rich, well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist.  Mostly sunny conditions are best, but some afternoon shade may be needed in warmer areas.

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