International Flower Bulb Centre
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
EUCOMIS comosa
Plant Common Name
Pineapple Flower, Pineapple Lily
General Description
This summer-growing bulbous perennial from eastern South Africa is grown for its bold, often strikingly marked leaves and its showy flowers.
Emerging in spring from a large egg-shaped bulb, the wavy, light green, broadly strap-shaped leaves form a handsome rosette. The leaves - which die back in fall - often have purple markings or flushing. Tall cylindrical spikes of star-shaped white or pinkish flowers are borne on stout fleshy stalks (scapes) in summer. The scapes are often purple-flecked. A frilly crest of leafy bracts overtops the flowers (giving rise to the common name "pineapple lily").
Surprisingly hardy given its African origin, this bulb does best in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. It requires ample summer moisture, and dryish conditions during its winter dormant period. Plant bulbs in spring at a depth of two to three times their width. Where marginally hardy, apply a coarse airy winter mulch. Pineapple lily's bold foliage and intriguing flowers suit it for use in containers, mixed borders, and cutting gardens. Purple-leaved cultivars include 'Oakhurst' and 'Sparkling Burgundy.'
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
7 - 10
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Bulb or Corm or Tuber
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
16"-28" / 40.6cm - 71.1cm
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Width
12"-16" / 30.5cm - 40.6cm
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Bloom Time
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
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Native To
South Africa
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Clump-Forming
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Seasonal Interest
Summer
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
White, Light Pink
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Purple, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Purple, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Purple, Light Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Feature Plant, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
Yes
