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Turquoise Puya

Iochroma grandiflora

This may be the closest thing to a blue Brugmansia!  Iochroma grandiflora is a rare Brugmansia relative from Peru with miniature blue Angel's Trumpet flowers!  All year long, the plant is covered with flaring blossoms almost 3 inches long - probably the largest of all Iochroma species.  This is a very beautiful plant that happens to be easy to grow.  It is rarely seen for sale.

Iochroma grandiflora - Blue Angel's trumpet

Iochroma grandiflora is an evergreen bush or tree that grows 18 to 20 feet tall here in San Francisco, but you can prune it to any size you wish.  The plant prefers moderate temperatures and cooler nights, however there are reports of it growing in warmer climates like Florida, where it flowers during the cooler months.  Still, consider it experimental in very hot or dry climates.  It should be protected from freezing temperatures, but it can probably survive a light frost.  It grows well indoors in a large pot.

Iochroma grandiflora

It enjoys mostly-sunny conditions.  In warmer climates, it might need some afternoon shade to prevent wilting.  It prefers moist, well-draining soil and regular feeding, much like its cousin, Brugmansia.  In the right conditions, it's an easy and very beautiful plant.
Note that the leaves and flowers reportedly contain a toxin, so keep children and pets from eating them.

Iochroma grandiflora

 

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Germination tips for this plant

 

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Rare and exotic plants

Turquoise Puya

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