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Turquoise Puya

Macleania insignis
 
This is a rare offering of the gorgeous Macleania insignis.  This exotic member of the blueberry family (Ericaceae) has highly decorative blooms that almost look like Christmas decorations!  This is an easy to grow plant that is a must for collectors!

Macleania insignis

 Macleania insignis is found from Southern Mexico to Costa Rica.  Despite its wide range, it is a fairly rare plant there.  It usually grows as an epiphyte in trees, although it does quite well in soil.  The plant has thick, durable leaves along trailing branches that reach 6 feet long if left unpruned. The flower clusters appear in the spring and summer.  The tubular, 1½" blooms are a vibrant shade of pinkish-red, and are tipped with white and red.  They are waxy and quite durable.  Hummingbirds pollinate the flowers in the wild.  After flowering, it makes beautiful, large fruits that look like purple blueberries!

Macleania is found in areas that range from 45-95 degrees F.  It can tolerate lower temperatures, but i would protect it from all frost.  You can grow it in a pot in a 50/50 mix of potting soil and perlite.  It likes slightly acid soil, so avoid lime and alkaline water.  It prefers tree-filtered sun or morning sun, and regular, light watering.  Some humidity is necessary for it to thrive - over 40% is recommended.

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Turquoise Puya

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