Photo of Puya alpestris flower by Far Out Flora

Photo by Far Out Flora

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Puya alpestris

Also Known As

  • Puya whytea
  • Sapphire Tower

Plant type

cactus / succulent, bromeliad

size

  • H: 4'-5'
  • W: 4'-5'

planting zones

  • 9a-10b

More Options

Puya alpestris plant details

Puya alpestris is an evergreen bromeliad or cactus / succulent with green foliage. In spring blue flowers emerge. Features glaucous texture. Grows well with sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Puya alpestris

Plant type: bromeliad or cactus / succulent
Plant family: bromeliaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 4 FT - 5 FT - wide, 4 FT - 5 FT - tall
Flowers: blue blooms in spring
Uses: container plant, rosette-forming, spiky

GROWING CONDITIONS for Puya alpestris

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This amazing succulent has shocking, sapphire-blue flowers held on 4-5 ft spikes over rosettes of spiny leaves. Despite their made-out-of-plastic appearance, they are the "real deal." Think spiky bromeliad, 'cause that's what it is. Leaves are 2-3 ft long, narrow and arching, green above and silver beneath, with spines along the margins. Drought tolerant, but some summer water is a good thing. Full sun and good drainage, of course. Frost hardy to 25 degrees F, mid USDA zone 9, perhaps lower with the perfect micro climate.

Gardening facts about Puya alpestris plant

How to Grow Puya alpestris

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • well-drained
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • blue
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
  • Texture

    • glaucous
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