When determining whether a flower is a lily or not, it is important to closely examine its characteristics. One common mistake is to confuse Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lily or Lily of the Incas, with true lilies. Although they may look similar at first glance, there are distinct features that differentiate the two.
To identify if a flower is a lily, consider the following points:
1. Flower Structure: True lilies typically have large, showy flowers with six petals arranged in two sets of three. These petals are often referred to as tepals, as they are similar in appearance and texture. On the other hand, Alstroemeria flowers also consist of six tepals, but they are fused together, making it difficult to distinguish between petals and sepals.
2. Tepal Appearance: In lilies, the six tepals are usually identical in shape, size, and color. They form a symmetrical, trumpet-shaped blossom. In contrast, Alstroemeria has three true petals and three matching sepals, giving the appearance of a six-petaled flower. The tepals of Alstroemeria may have variations in color and pattern, adding to their unique beauty.
3. Plant Height and Growth Habit: Lilies are known for their tall and upright growth, often reaching heights of several feet. They have a single, central stem with leaves arranged in whorls or spirals. Alstroemeria, on the other hand, is generally shorter and bushier, with stems branching out from the base. The leaves are typically arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems.
4. Bulb vs. Rhizome: Most true lilies grow from bulbs, which are underground storage structures. These bulbs are fleshy and can be easily separated into scales. Alstroemeria, however, grows from rhizomes, which are thick, horizontal stems that spread underground. Rhizomes are typically tougher and harder to separate than lily bulbs.
5. Flowering Time: Different lily species bloom at different times of the year, but they typically flower in late spring or summer. Alstroemeria, on the other hand, is known for its long flowering season, often starting in late spring and continuing through the summer and into fall. This extended blooming period adds to its popularity as a garden plant.
Personal Experience:
In my own garden, I have encountered both lilies and Alstroemeria. Initially, I mistook Alstroemeria for miniature lilies due to their similar appearance. However, upon closer inspection, I noticed the distinct differences in flower structure and growth habit. The trumpet-shaped blossoms and the presence of three true petals and three matching sepals helped me identify them as Alstroemeria rather than lilies.
In summary, to determine if a flower is a lily or not, one should closely examine its flower structure, tepal appearance, plant height, bulb or rhizome type, and flowering time. By considering these characteristics, it becomes easier to differentiate between true lilies and Alstroemeria.
