Puya chilensis aka Chilean Puya

Taxonomy

Genus Puya Family Bromeliaceae Order Poales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Puya chilensis is a terrestrial bromeliad native to the arid hillsides of Chile. This evergreen, clumping perennial forms dense rosettes of lance-shaped, stiff, leathery mid-green leaves with coarse, marginal spines that point inward. The plant produces a stout flower stem, reaching up to 1.5m in height, adorned with yellow-green, bell-shaped flowers interspersed with bird perches. However, it is a monocarpic species, meaning that it dies after flowering. Following the flowers, green fruits containing winged seeds develop. The leaves of Puya chilensis resemble those of aloe, with spines lining their edges, which are believed to trap small animals, serving as fertilizer for the plant. This slow-growing species can colonize large areas over time through offsets. It takes approximately 20 years or more for the plant to mature and bloom. The outer two-thirds of the leaf blade bear outward-pointing spines, potentially deterring herbivores from reaching the center of the plant. While hazardous to sheep and birds, which may become entangled in the spines, Puya chilensis showcases its unique and fascinating characteristics.

Common names

Chilean Puya

How to care for Chilean Puya

Difficulty

Caring for Chilean Puya can be demanding, requiring a deep understanding of its unique needs and a commitment to provide optimal care.

Water

Chilean Puya does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Lighting

Chilean Puya thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Chilean Puya.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Chilean Puya’s native range is S. America - Chile.

More info:
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More Species in Puya Genus

Puya chilensis Chilean Puya

Puya alpestris Sapphire Tower