Puya chilensis verbascum rosetta Cold hardiness: Zones 5-8b

Cold hardiness: Zones 5-8b

Planted in the middle or towards the back of the flower bed

growing to perhaps 20 feet tall

Penstemon 'Twizzle Purple' blooms vibrant purple flowers on stalks 24"-36" in height

Cold hardiness: Zones 8-10

Puya chilensis verbascum rosetta Cold hardiness: Zones 5-8bA cold hardy terrestrial bromeliad, this pineapple relative makes an exotic addition to a xeric or rock garden. Seriously sharp curved spines line the tough leaves, and it has even been called the "Sheep eater plant" for it's potential ability to ensnare wildlife. It has caught my bare skin many times when I brushed up against it, so be warned. The bloom on puyas is extraordinary, and this plant will send up a 6 foot tall spike, covered in chartreuse