Puya is a large genus consisting of 170 species of South American terrestrial bromeliads in the Bromeliaceae family. They include the largest of all bromeliads, some species growing to about 6 meters. They are cultivated in gardens as shrubs. The leaves stand out boldly from a basal rosette and they often have hollow stems. Large blue, purple or yellow flowers are held on unbranched spikes or in dense panicles. The fruit are capsules that enclose winged seeds.

These plants can grow in a wide range of soils provided they are well-drained and prefer a sunny position. As with all members of the bromeliad family, keep them away from footpaths because the leaves bear sharp spines along the margins. Prune to remove damaged foliage and propagate by division of offsets or from seed. They grow well in raised garden beds, rockeries and in large pots.

Puya weddelliana is a striking species of flowering plant native to the Andean regions of southern Peru. A member of the Bromeliaceae family, it is known for its impressive, tall flower spikes and the rosette of spiny, leathery leaves that form its base. This plant thrives in high-altitude environments, where it is well-adapted to survive the cool and often dry conditions of the Andean mountains. Puya weddelliana is particularly noted for its vibrant, tubular flowers, which are typically a striking shade of blue or green, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. The plant’s flowers emerge in dense clusters atop tall, branching inflorescences, making it an eye-catching and dramatic presence in the landscape. Though relatively rare, Puya weddelliana is valued for its ornamental beauty and resilience, making it a prized specimen in botanical gardens and collections around the world.