What is puya alpestris - sapphire tower?

Puya alpestris, also known as the sapphire tower, is a species of flowering plant in the bromeliad family. It is native to the high Andes mountains of Chile and Argentina, where it grows in rocky, arid habitats at elevations of 2,000 to 4,000 meters.

The sapphire tower plant is known for its striking appearance, with tall spikes of bright blue flowers that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are pollinated by birds and insects.

The plant has adapted to survive in its harsh environment by storing water in its leaves and forming a rosette shape that channels moisture into the center of the plant. It also has sharp spines along its leaves and stem to deter animals from eating it.

Due to its unique beauty and hardiness, Puya alpestris has become a popular ornamental plant in gardens and conservatories around the world. However, over-collection and habitat destruction have put the species at risk, and it is now listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).