Puya alpestris ssp. zoellneri
Blue Puya; Turquoise Puya
Description
These gigantic terrestrial bromeliads are quite dramatic in and of themselves but their flowers are unforgettable. The inflorescence is typically 6.5' - 13' tall with many side-branches. The lower part of each branch is densely packed with large flowers of an incredible metallic blue-green color, which contrasts strikingly with the orange pollen. Flowering time is spring with blooms lasting for several months. Foliage is beautiful but armed with thorns. Established plants are drought tolerant and require little maintenance. It does best in full sun with well draining, gravel soil.
Plant Type
Perennial
Height Range
6-12', 12-25'
Width Range
Flower Color
Blue, Orange
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Soil Type
Rocky
Soil Condition
Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
Attracts Bees, Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Background, Perennial Border, Roadside, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Container, Cut Flowers, Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Hummingbirds
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.
Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.