Puya mirabilis
wonderful puya
A bromeliad, producing loose, evergreenrosettes of long, narrow, stiff and leathery, pale grey-green or bronzy-green leaves edged with fine teeth. Mature rosettes produces stout flower stems,with yellow-green, bell-shaped flowers up to 10cm long, followed by green fruit containing winged seeds
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Bronze Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Yellow | Bronze Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Bronze Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Bronze Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Bromeliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Puya are evergreen, terrestrial, perennial herbs with leathery, typically spiny, leaves forming dense rosettes. Native to Central and South America
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Argentina & Bolivia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a container in terrestrial bromeliad compost. Water moderately when in active growth in mid-spring to late summer and apply a low nitrogen fertiliser every 6-8 weeks. Can stand outdoors in a sheltered, sunny position in summer; otherwise grow in good light in a warm greenhouse
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 19-24°C as soon as ripe
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Patio and container plants
- Mediterranean climate plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Sub-tropical
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects
Diseases
May be susceptible to root rots in wet soils
Get involved
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