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''Puya chilensis'' is a terrestrial bromeliad originating from the arid hillsides of
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It is commonly found on arid hillsides of the
In its natural arid environment, plants can be highly flammable and are susceptible to damage from fires that are often the result of human action. Land clearance is an increasing threat.
Chile
Chile, officially the Republic of Chile, is a country in the western part of South America. It is the southernmost country in the world, and the closest to Antarctica, occupying a long and narrow strip of land between the Andes to the east a ...
. Description
An evergreen perennial, it forms large, dense rosettes of grey-green, strap-like leaves edged with hooked spines. The green or yellow flowers are borne on spikes which resemble a medieval mace, and stand up to high. Spreading by offsets, ''Puya chilensis'' can colonise large areas over time. Growth is slow and plants may take 20 years or more to flower. The outer two-thirds of the leaf blade bears outward-pointing spines which may be an adaptation to prevent herbivores from reaching the center of the plant. The plant is believed to be hazardous to sheep and birds which may become entangled in the spines of the leaves. If the animal dies, the plant may gain nutrients as the animal decomposes nearby, though this has not been confirmed. For this reason, ''Puya chilensis'' has earned the nickname "sheep-eating plant". If true, this would make ''Puya chilensis'' a protocarnivorous plant. Fibers from the leaves are used to weave durable fishing-nets.Natural habitat
It is commonly found on arid hillsides of the Andes
The Andes, Andes Mountains or Andean Mountains (; ) are the longest continental mountain range in the world, forming a continuous highland along the western edge of South America. The range is long, wide (widest between 18°S – 20°S ...
, on north-facing slopes of matorral areas at above sea level.
Conservation
''Puya chilensis'' is not considered threatened. It is also cultivated in many parts of the world.In its natural arid environment, plants can be highly flammable and are susceptible to damage from fires that are often the result of human action. Land clearance is an increasing threat.
References
Further reading
* Shaw, Christine 2005. Architectural Plants. * Miles, Tim & Rowe, David & Smit, Tim 2003. The New Cornish Garden.External links
{{Taxonbar, from=Q149268 chilensis Chilean Matorral Flora of central Chile Garden plants Drought-tolerant plants