Puya coerulea, commonly known as the Blue Puya, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the sclerophyllous woodlands and rocky slopes of central Chile. It is particularly adapted to the Mediterranean climate of its native range, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Blue Puya can reach a height of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) with a similar spread, and it forms a rosette of narrow, spiny, silver-green leaves. The plant is renowned for its striking metallic turquoise to navy blue flowers, which appear on tall spikes in the spring and early summer and are exceptionally showy, attracting both gardeners and pollinators alike.

The Blue Puya is valued in cultivation for its unique flower color and architectural form, making it a focal point in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and as a specimen plant in botanical collections. It requires minimal maintenance once established, tolerating drought and poor soils, although it performs best in well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils. Full sun is essential for optimal growth and flowering. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Blue Puya is not commonly found in cultivation, but when available, it offers a dramatic and exotic element to the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0