Puya mirabilis

RHS Plant Profile
wonderful puya
Conservatory Greenhouse Herbaceous Perennial

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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