Puya alpestris
TAXONOMY
FamilyBromeliaceae
GenusPuya
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Puya alpestris, commonly known as Sapphire Tower, is a striking perennial plant native to the Andes mountains in Chile. It belongs to the Bromeliaceae family and is known for its vibrant blue-green flowers and spiky foliage. This plant thrives in temperate climates and is well-suited to outdoor gardens in regions with mild winters.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Sapphire Tower
Pitcairnia alpestris
Pourretia alpestris
Puya whytei
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Puya alpestris requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate some drought once established. Regular watering is necessary during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. This plant does well in moderate humidity levels.Soil
Puya alpestris prefers well-draining sandy soil. It is important to ensure that the soil does not retain too much moisture, as this can lead to root rot. A mix of sand and loam can provide the ideal growing medium for this plant.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly, as this plant does not require heavy feeding.Repotting
Repotting Puya alpestris is generally not necessary unless the plant outgrows its container. If repotting is needed, do so in the spring. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot, gently shake off excess soil, and place it in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil.Propagation
Puya alpestris can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. Division can be done by separating offsets from the parent plant and planting them in individual pots.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for Puya alpestris. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Puya alpestris is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, the spiky foliage can cause minor injuries if handled carelessly.Additional
Puya alpestris is a visually stunning plant that can add a unique touch to any garden. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Ensure it receives plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil for the best results.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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