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Puya
Puya mirabilis
Puya mirabilis is a species of Bromeliad in the genus Puya. This species is native to Bolivia.


Hardiness Zones
5 to 10


More Info

Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color
Green
Silver
Bronze
Scientific Classification

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Distribution Map

Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported


Questions About Puya






What’s the best method to water Puya?
One way to produce a healthy Puya is to put a saucer under the potted plant. This way, you’ll avoid the roots from sitting on too much water and give these species consistent humidity over time. You’ll also allow evaporation of the water this way.
Another method is the approach of soak and dry. This helps the Puya develop a healthy root system that seeks moisture and water during periods of drought. You can think about the plant living on rocky cliffs and rocky crevices. They get downpours and flash floods of water from storms that can last up to 24 hours; then, there will be periods of drought for weeks, so following their natural habitat can greatly help.
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What should I do if I water my Puya too much/too little?
Overwatering the Puya can have a negative impact on the plant. They might develop root rot, especially if the soil is constantly wet or the potting mix clogs out of the water. Overwatered plants can have yellowing leaves that feel mushy and soft from overwatering. When you start to see that the leaves begin to droop, wilt, and become yellow, these are the signs of too much watering. The plants might not get enough air, this can lead to the death of the entire root or even the whole plant. Water them correctly when the soil becomes dry to prevent this from happening.
Under watering can generally stop the plants’ growth. This will give them a wilted look, but they can quickly recover once given enough water. Allow the plant to dry between watering for optimal growth.
Some of the symptoms of underwatering to know about are wilting, dead leaf tips, and slow growth. Sagging is a classic sign of underwatering where the cells of the plants lose their rigidity. Others will have brown leaf tips that can lead to the death of the entire leaf, and there’s the slow growth of new leaves. Even if there’s new growth, they can be smaller and do not display a bright green color as the existing ones.
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How often should I water my Puya?
The Puya generally requires water at least once every 2 weeks. These plants are not considered to be succulents. Instead, they are xerographic, where they can survive for weeks without water by going dormant. They don’t store water in their leaves, so you might want to balance the moisture they receive to keep them happy. However, it’s important to only water when you see that the container’s dry but slightly moist.
Watering in the fall is not a requirement, especially if your area is getting a decent amount of rain. The soil won’t dry out too quickly, so stop watering when the temperature is below 40 ℉.
In winter, the plants go dormant, so there’s no need to water them. Let them rest and recover for a few weeks. During their growing season in the spring, water them deeply and thoroughly once every two weeks so they will produce new leaves and grow more. In the summer, water once a week when the weather becomes too hot and dry. These plants are drought tolerant but going without water for a few weeks is not optimal for their growth.
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How much water does my Puya need?
Puya needs 5% to 24% of moisture to grow. When you notice that the soil is too dry on the ground or in the pot, water the Puya sufficiently until you see that the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. Don’t pour the water on the soil until you see that the soil inside the pot is very dry. These plants don’t generally don’t want to sit around with wet feet, so you might want to get them a drink when they need it the most.
When Puya is planted in the garden, and it’s hot outside, make sure to water them at least once a week. They might be receiving residual moisture from the trees around them, or they have plenty of rainwater and if so, only water them a week when the soil is very dry.
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How can I ensure that i'm watering my Puya adequately?
Make sure that the water is evenly distributed in the pot. Water more liberally throughout the soil until you see that the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. Use well-draining soil and use the soak and dry method as mentioned. Puya require watering when the roots are becoming too dry so check the soil at least once a week to ensure they are not under-watered. Also, you might want to keep track of your watering schedule through applications or taking notes.
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Should I adjust the watering frequency of my Puya according to different seasons or climates?
When the Puya is in their growing season, which is summer and spring, they generally require an abundance of water. Use the soak and dry method at least once every 1-2 weeks and be generous with them. During the winter, ensure water only once in a while as this is the dormant season.
When planted outdoors, stick your finger on the soil and see if about two-thirds of it is already dry. Puya generally wants moist soil, but you should not let them be too dry, or they can wilt. Ideal watering conditions are to do it moderately during the spring and summer. Water at least once every 3-4 weeks in winter or fall. If you live in areas with high humidity, don’t water too much to avoid root rot. Consider the rainwater that they are receiving and it’s better to lean on the side of underwatering rather than over watering especially if they are planted outdoors.
When the Puya is in a pot and not receiving moisture from the rain or nearby trees, water it frequently at the recommended level of at least once every two weeks. They need deep watering where you can see water going out of the drainage holes for optimal growth. When indoors or kept in a nursery, the Puya will thrive better when you adjust the watering schedule whenever you notice that the soil is already too dry in the pot.
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Should I water my Puya differently when I plant it indoors vs outdoors?
Only water whenever the soil feels slightly dry, especially if it’s indoors. Water less during the winter and once every 2-3 weeks should be sufficient for those that are growing inside the house and not receiving enough sunlight. Probe the soil with your finger and see if the plant needs a drink.
Seldom but thorough watering can also work with Puya that’s planted outdoors. The water needs some time to flush through the potting soil, so be careful not to waterlog the garden. Water it early in the morning to promote evaporation as the sun rises and factor in the rain schedule before you give this species a drink.
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What should I be careful with when I water my Puya during different growing periods?
When you’re still in the growing phase of the Puya, keep the young plants away from the mother plant and ensure to keep the soil moist. The succulent and thick leaves do not contain much water, So you should give it to them at least once every 2 weeks and make sure that they receive occasional misting.
When they are properly established, you can change this depending on their needs. The mature plants are drought tolerant and make sure to keep it away from excess water. The monsoon seasons and their cycle are very important for the health of the Puya, so you might want to put them outdoors for better results.
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What should I be careful with when I water my Puya in different seasons, climate or during different growing periods?
During the summer and spring, it’s best to water abundantly, especially if the pots are placed at room temperature. Make sure to reach the upper cervix and water once a week. During fall and winter, only water moderately and leave some moisture on the soil. Don’t allow it to be too dry.
Humidity should be not less than 60%. Be careful when using soft water; the surface should be covered with wet moss. However, be extra cautious with the flowering period of Puya, and it’s always better to avoid spraying them. The excess moisture can make the flowers lose their attractiveness, so make sure to water them sparingly after they have bloomed.
It’s best not to use spray bottles on your plant. The leaves don’t directly benefit from the extra moisture since the roots are the only part that needs to be watered. Also, don’t use cold or hot water; leave it at room temperature as extremes can damage the plants and their root systems.
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Why is watering my Puya important?
Watering the Puya helps it develop a healthier root system and makes the plant thrive. Ensure that your Puya gets enough water but also know that they are pretty hardy and are tolerant to drought. When the Puya becomes too dry, they might stop growing and eventually die. You might want to look at the soil and adjust the watering frequency whenever possible. Watch the signs that your plant is giving you and make sure to decide if it’s time to water them or not.
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More About How-Tos

Water
Every 2-3 weeks
Originating from arid regions, Puya prefers minimal watering. Only water when the soil is completely dry. Be cautious not to over-water, as this plant thrives on neglect.
Learn More 
Lighting
Full sun
Puya originates from environments like forest understories that offer natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun if necessary.
Learn More 
Temperature
15 to 35 ℃
Puya thrives in warm environments. If the environmental temperature becomes too low, the plant may cease growth or suffer from frost damage. It has a strong tolerance for high temperatures and humidity, requiring a consistent level of moisture in the surroundings. However, excessively high temperatures and humidity can make the plant susceptible to fungal infections. In dry conditions, regular watering and misting are necessary to maintain adequate air humidity. The plant is sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations, so it's important to maintain a relatively stable temperature.
Learn More 
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Orchid
Orchid is robust and can go months without receiving water. Its most distinct characteristic is its flowers: yellow, black, and fuzzy, these sometimes striped blooms resemble the bees which pollinate orchid and countless other plants.

Orchid
Orchid (Cryptochilus roseus) is an epiphyte orchid with 2.5 cm flowers that are white with a rosy pink glow. Flowers bloom in spring and produce 3 to 4 blooms per stem. Native to China, it prefers filtered sunlight, medium moisture and highly humid conditions.

Orchid
Orchid is a type of orchid found in wet mountain environments. The flowers are tiny - often no more than 5 mm across. Orchid is not a well-studied plant and is becoming ever more endangered. It is feared to already be regionally extinct in Bangladesh.

Orchid
*Herpysma longicaulis* reaches a height of 18 to 30 cm. The plants have a creeping rhizome with few to many internodes. The roots originate individually from the nodes. The above-ground rungs (5 to 8 mm in diameter) are continuously covered with leaves. The leaf blade narrows at the base to a petiole that encircles the stem in a tubular shape.
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About
More Info
Distribution
Care FAQ
More About How-Tos
Related Plants





Puya
Puya mirabilis
Puya mirabilis is a species of Bromeliad in the genus Puya. This species is native to Bolivia.


Hardiness Zones
5 to 10


More Info

Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color
Green
Silver
Bronze
Scientific Classification

Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.
Download the App

Distribution Map
Map

Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported

Questions About Puya






What’s the best method to water Puya?

What should I do if I water my Puya too much/too little?

How often should I water my Puya?

How much water does my Puya need?

How can I ensure that i'm watering my Puya adequately?

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Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
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Water


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor potted

In the ground



Essentials
Originating from arid regions, Puya prefers minimal watering. Only water when the soil is completely dry. Be cautious not to over-water, as this plant thrives on neglect.
Watering check today
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Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Morning



Noonday



Evening




Requirements

Every 2-3 weeks
Watering Frequency

Smart Seasonal Watering
Install the app for seasonal watering guidance
Download the App

Amount and Approach
Watering from the soil

1. Gradually pour water to the soil from above.
2. Stop watering your plant once water begins to flow out of the drainage holes in the pot.
3. Allow it to rest for 1 minute, then discard any water remaining in the tray, making sure your plant is not sitting in the water.

Watering from the bottom

1. Fill the tray with water, ensure that the soil makes contact with the water.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. Drain excess water from the tray if the soil is uniformly damp.
4. Watering more to the tray if the soil remains dry.
5. Allow it to sit for an additional 20 minutes before draining any excess water.

Soaking the water

1. Select a location for soaking your plants, such as a tray or bathtub.
2. Pour a few centimeters of fresh water into the bottom of your chosen container.
3. Soaking your plant pots within the water, allowing them to absorb moisture for 1 hour.
4. Remove the plants from the water and let them dry.

For Puya, outdoor watering can be done using the method of sprinkling. It is a simple and direct approach. It involves pouring water onto the soil around the plant, allowing the water to naturally seep into the root zone. Typically, containers such as watering cans, buckets, or watering jugs are used for sprinkling. Depending on the size of the plant, usually, 1-2 gallons of water are required to ensure the soil around the roots is thoroughly moistened.
Important Symptoms
Overwatering
Puya is prone to developing disease symptoms when overwatered, as it possesses some drought tolerance. It prefers a drier environment, and symptoms of overwatering include yellowing leaves, brown or black spots, root rot...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Yellowing leaves

When plants receive too much water, the roots become oxygen deprived and the bottom leaves of the plant gradually turn yellow.
Brown or black spots

Excessive watering can damage the plant's root system, making it vulnerable to fungal infections. The plant may develop dark brown to black spots that spread upwards from the lower leaves which are usually the first to be affected.
Root rot

Excess water in the soil can lead to the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria, causing the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Increased susceptibility diseases

Overwatering plants may become more susceptible and diseases as their overall health declines, weakening their natural defenses.
Solutions
1. Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness. Wait for soil to dry before watering.2. Increase soil aeration by loosening surface and gently stirring with a wooden stick or chopstick.3. Optimize environment with good ventilation and warmth to enhance water evaporation and prevent overwatering.
Underwatering
Puya is not prone to experiencing plant health issues due to lack of watering. However, it can suffer from dehydration if watering is consistently forgotten for an extended period. Symptoms of dehydration include wilting, leaf curling, yellowing leaves...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Leaf curling

Leaves may curl inward or downward as they attempt to conserve water and minimize water loss through transpiration.
Yellowing leaves

The leaves may begin to yellow or develop dry tips as a result of water stress and reduced nutrient uptake.
Root damage

Prolonged underwatering can cause root damage, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water even when it is available.
Dying plant

If underwatering continues for an extended period, the plant may ultimately die as a result of severe water stress and an inability to carry out essential functions.
Solutions
1. Thoroughly saturate soil with slow ring watering to ensure uniform and sufficient moisture for plants. 2. Increase air humidity with water trays or misting to slow leaf water evaporation. 3. Watering according to the recommended frequency.Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness.

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Lighting


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Full sun
Ideal
Above 6 hours sunlight

Partial sun
Tolerance
About 3-6 hours sunlight

Essentials
Puya originates from environments like forest understories that offer natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun if necessary.








Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
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Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Insufficient light
Puya thrives in partial sunlight but can tolerate full sunlight in cooler weather. Due to its adaptability, symptoms of light deficiency may not be easily noticeable.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your Puya may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.
Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.
Slower or no new growth

Puya enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Solutions
1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Excessive light
Puya thrives in partial sun but can handle full sun in cooler conditions. However, during summer, they are prone to sunburn as they cannot tolerate intense sunlight in high-temperature environments.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

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Temperature


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable

Essentials
Puya thrives in warm environments. If the environmental temperature becomes too low, the plant may cease growth or suffer from frost damage. It has a strong tolerance for high temperatures and humidity, requiring a consistent level of moisture in the surroundings. However, excessively high temperatures and humidity can make the plant susceptible to fungal infections. In dry conditions, regular watering and misting are necessary to maintain adequate air humidity. The plant is sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations, so it's important to maintain a relatively stable temperature.
Puya is a tropical plant, so during the winter, if the minimum temperature drops below {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}, it is recommended to move the plant indoors for cultivation. Choose a location near a south-facing window to ensure sufficient sunlight. Avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioners to prevent excessive dryness. Maintaining indoor temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} is highly beneficial for Puya. If the temperature falls below {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}, reduce watering and wait until the soil surface is dry before watering again to prevent root rot. For plants that need to overwinter outdoors, make sure they are in a sheltered position that receives sunlight. During colder temperatures, you can set up a temporary greenhouse or use materials such as plastic film or fabric to wrap the plants. Additionally, reduce watering and keep the soil slightly moist.
Important Symptoms
Low Temperature
Puya prefers warm environments and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, initially, the leaves show no obvious symptoms. However, after three to five days, they start to wither and droop, and in severe cases, the entire plant may dry up.
Solutions
Trim the frostbitten area. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment for protection against the cold. Choose a spot near a south-facing window to place the plants, ensuring ample sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing the plants near heaters or air conditioning vents to prevent excessive dryness in the air.
High Temperature
During summer, Puya should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the leaves may become dry and withered at the tips, growth may cease, and the plant may be prone to root rot. Additionally, excessive exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn.
Solutions
Remove the withered parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep both the plant and the environment moist.

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