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Turquoise Puya

Big Red Bomarea 

Bomarea plants are spectacular vines that are closely related to Alstroemeria, the "Peruvian Lily" seen in flower arrangements.  Shown here is an extremely rare form from Ecuador called "Big Red".  Throughout the year, it explodes with color with big clusters of oversized blooms - possibly the largest of all Bomareas.  The species name is undetermined.  I don't know anyone else offering fresh seeds.

Big Red Bomarea

Even in winter, the clusters are amazing!

The "Big Red" Bomarea is a tuberous, evergreen vine with long, attractive shoots that twine their way up another plant, or along an arbor or trellis.  The scarlet-red blossoms appear most months of the year on mature plants, including winter, when most other plants are drab.  The clusters can have 20-30 or more flowers, each about 2 inches long.  Each bloom is attached to the cluster by an attractive burgundy base.  Unlike some Bomarea species, the Big Red generally doesn't go dormant if kept from freezing.

Big Red Bomarea

Most Bomareas prefer mild temperatures and cooler nights.  This one is untested in hot conditions, but i suspect it might not thrive if temperatures consistently get above 85 degrees F (30°C), and nights are warm (above 65°F / 18°C).  The foliage may be killed by frost, but the tubers should be hardy to at least 25 degrees F (-4 C).  Still, i recommend protecting the plant from freezing temperatures.

It likes mostly-sunny conditions, with some protection from hot afternoon sun.  Give it something to twine itself around, like a trellis, wires, etc.  If the shoots grow too tall, don't cut them; simply wrap them down and around the trellis.  The plant likes fertile, well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist.  Over about 40-45% humidity is best.

Fiesta Bomarea
Also see the amazing "Fiesta" Bomarea!

 

Check availability

 

Germination tips for this plant

 

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