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Sapphire Tower

Puya Alpestris

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Overview

Puya alpestris, commonly known as Sapphire Tower, is a striking evergreen perennial native to Chilean slopes. It features a rosette of narrow, silver-green leaves reaching 2-3 feet in length and armed with hooked spines along the edges. This plant's crowning glory is its impressive turquoise-blue flowers on a 5-6 foot tall spike that blooms in late spring to early summer, providing an exotic focal point in xeriscape designs.

Sun FullWater LowZones 10–11Type SucculentClimate Subtropical
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — the Sapphire Tower is a remarkable addition to the discerning horticulturist's collection

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low
USDA zones
10–11

Shape & size

Mature height
2–3 Ft.
Mature width
3–5 Ft.

Classification

Type
Succulent
Family
Bromeliaceae
Climate
Subtropical

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Photos (101)

Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — succulent with blue and green blooms
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — It is drought-tolerant once established; making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and arid landscaping schemes
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — providing an exotic focal point in xeriscape designs; the Sapphire Tower is a remarkable addition to the discerning
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — making it an eye-catching addition to any garden; puya alpestris, commonly known as Sapphire Tower, is a striking, image 71
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — Puya alpestris, commonly known as Sapphire Tower, is a striking evergreen perennial native to Chilean slopes
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — Adding a mulch layer can provide additional cold protection; making it an eye-catching addition to any garden, image 81
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — Puya alpestris requires well-drained soil and thrives in full sun; the inflorescence holds numerous, image 77
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — succulent with blue and green blooms; puya alpestris requires well-drained soil and thrives in full sun
Sapphire Tower (Puya Alpestris) — It's important to note that this plant may take several years before it blooms; succulent for full, image 75
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Puya Alpestris
Photographs by 3 contributors

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