Meaning and symbolism of the Astromelia or Lily of Peru

Alstroemerias are beautiful flowers with vibrant hues that can attract anyone's attention. Aside from its charming appearance, this flower is also known for its symbolism, which can help express your most sincere emotions or feelings, especially when gifted at the right time. To give you a better overview, here is what you need to know about alstroemeria.

What are astromeliads?

Alstroemeria is a genus of plants in the Alstroemeriaceae family. The name comes from Klaus Alsstromer, a Swedish baron who discovered the plant in Chile.

Alstroemeria is known to have an inflorescence formation, which is a collection of flowers on a single branch. These bouquets usually bloom during the summer season, but some varieties bloom in the fall. Apart from that, the flower comes in different shades like white, yellow, purple, pink, orange, and red.

Alstroemerias are native to South America and were brought to Europe in the 18th century, making them available internationally. Today there are more than 50 varieties of Alstroemeria. The most popular varieties of this flower are the Peruvian lily (Alstroemeria pelegrina), the Brazilian lily (Alstroemeria caryophyllacea), the lily (Alstroemeria ligtu) and the parrot lily (Alstroemeria pulchella). One reason for the popularity of this flower is its variety of colors and its long vase life.

Meaning and symbolism of alstroemeria

Astromelia has several symbolic meanings, including the following

Friendship

The alstroemeria flower is a symbol of friendship. The reason is that its leaves twist out of its base when growing upside down. Like leaves, friends experience a few twists and turns, allowing them to grow and strengthen their friendship.

Devotion

Like the twisting leaves of this plant, marriages are complex in nature, and couples experience twists and turns. Still, these challenges will only strengthen your relationship as long as you remain devoted to each other. For this reason, alstroemeria is used as a symbol of eternal devotion among married couples.

Support

Alstroemeria is considered a symbol of mutual support, and signifies the ability of people to help each other through difficult times.

Survival

Alstroemeria is a symbol of survival because the plant can thrive in various environmental conditions. In addition, the plant can also overcome numerous challenges.

Wealth, prosperity and luck

In some cultures, this beautiful flower symbolizes luck, prosperity, and wealth. For this reason, it can make a great housewarming gift.

As we said before, alstroemeria can have different shades, and each color has its own meaning.

White astromelia

In general, white alstroemeria symbolizes spirituality, love, purity, and support. Therefore, this flower is often used at weddings because it represents the love between two people. Also, the white variety can signify pure friendship.

Yellow astromelia

The yellow alstroemeria, like most yellow flowers, is a symbol of energy, optimism, joy and happiness. Therefore, this beautiful flower can be a great decoration to bring positivity and optimism to the home. You can also give this flower to your friends to remind them of the happy moments you spent together.

Pink astromelia

Pink alstroemeria represents joy, romance, love, and gentle feelings. Because of its meaning, this beautiful flower is the perfect gift for your special someone, especially if your relationship has gone from being friendly to loving.

Orange astromelia

Like the yellow varieties, the orange astromeliad represents passion and positive energy, making it a great home decoration.

Red astromelia

Like most red flowers, red alstroemeria is a symbol of love, romance, and passion. As such, it can be an excellent gift for your partner, especially if you want to say "I love you" in a fun and passionate way.

Purple astromelia

The purple or purple-flowered alstroemeria is often gifted to graceful and elegant people, because it symbolizes nobility and royalty.

Astromelia in use today

Alstroemeria have a delicate texture and vivid colors. That is why many florists use this precious flower as a filler material in various flower arrangements, such as corsages and bridal bouquets. In addition, it can also be used in centerpieces and home textiles, as it can last up to two weeks as a cut flower. Finally, Alstroemeria is fragrance free. Therefore, it can be an excellent alternative to aromatic flowers, especially if the recipient is allergic.

When to give alstroemerias?

Alstroemerias can be great gifts because they radiate a beauty that can lift a person's spirits; however, the flower is not for all occasions due to its meanings. So when should you gift this vibrant flower?

Birthday

Alstroemerias, specifically the orange and yellow varieties, can be an excellent birthday gift for your family and friends because they symbolize positivity, joy and happiness. By gifting them, you are communicating that you wish joy and happiness for the birthday celebrant.

Valentine's Day

If your special someone is allergic, pink or red alstroemerias make a great gift. The reason is that the flower can express your love and affection for the recipient.

Recovery gift

As a symbol of support and survival, alstroemerias can be gifted to loved ones who are feeling depressed or having difficulties in life. The flower doesn't just express your support. It can also serve as a reminder that the recipient has the strength to survive and face life's challenges.

Housewarming

Alstroemeria makes a great housewarming gift because it can bring positive energy to your house.

Final thoughts on astromelia

Overall, alstroemeria can make a great gift for your family and friends, and since this beautiful flower has multiple meanings, it makes an appropriate gift for various occasions. Whether you include it in your bridal bouquet or are looking for fresh flowers for your home, alstroemeria offers something for everyone.