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Turquoise Puya

Unfortunately there isn't a blue Brugmansia, but this is the next best thing!  Iochroma australis is a rare Brugmansia relative with miniature blue Angel's Trumpet flowers.  This 6 to 10 foot bush from Argentina becomes smothered with 2 inch blooms from spring through summer, creating a huge ball of blue.  In full bloom, it is truly spectacular!   

Iochroma australis tends to go deciduous in winter, but if grown indoors, it will stay evergreen and can flower any time of year!  The plant prefers moderate temperatures, however there are reports of it growing in warmer areas like Florida, where it flowers during the cooler months.  Still, consider it experimental in very hot or dry areas.  It should be protected from frost, although it can probably survive a few degrees of frost.  It grows well indoors in a pot. 

 The plant litters the ground with a gorgeous carpet of blue flower petals!

Iochroma australis likes mostly-sunny conditions.  In warmer areas, it's best to give it some afternoon shade, and good air circulation.  It prefers moist, well-draining soil and regular feeding, much like its cousin, the Brugmansia.  In the right conditions, it is an easy plant.
Note that the leaves, flowers, and fruit are said to contain a toxin, so please keep small children away from the plant.

 

Click here to check availability.

For detailed growing tips about this plant, click here.

 

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Strange Wonderful Things

Rare and exotic plants & seeds

Turquoise Puya

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