Pineapple lily 'Indian Summer' Eucomis comosa 'Indian Summer'

Water

Pineapple lily (Eucomis comosa 'Indian Summer') should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, usually about once a week during its growing season. Water at the base of the plant until moisture is evenly distributed through the pot or ground. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases. During active growth, in spring and summer, the plant may need approximately one gallon of water every 7 to 10 days, depending on climate conditions. Reduce watering in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Light

The pineapple lily prefers full sun to partial shade, thriving best with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions. Place the plant in a spot that gets consistent light, avoiding dark corners or deep shade, which could lead to leggy growth or poor flowering.

Temperature

Pineapple lilies prefer warm temperatures and can tolerate a range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive occasional dips down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but should not be exposed to temperatures below that for extended periods. During winter dormancy, it's fine to keep the bulbs in a cooler environment, but be sure not to let them freeze.

Pruning

Prune the pineapple lily post-flowering or in the autumn to remove spent flower stalks and yellowing leaves. Deadheading helps direct the plant's energy into bulb growth for the next season. Annual pruning usually suffices, and the best time to trim is when you notice the flowers and foliage naturally dying back.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pineapple lily prefers well-draining soil with a mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part compost. Adequate drainage aids in preventing rot. The ideal soil pH for Pineapple lily is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Pineapple lilies should be repotted every two to three years as they outgrow their pots or when the soil is depleted. The best time to repot is during their dormancy period in winter.

Humidity & Misting

Pineapple lily thrives in average room humidity levels. They can tolerate some dry air, but prefer a moderate humidity level. No specific humidity is necessary beyond normal indoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water when the topsoil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Grow in sunny spots, shelter from strong winds, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Eucomis comosa 'Indian Summer,' commonly known as Pineapple Lily, begins its life cycle when the bulb is planted in well-draining soil in spring after the threat of frost has passed. It sprouts strappy green leaves, forming a rosette at the base, with sunlight triggering growth. During late summer, a tall flower spike resembling a pineapple, due to its topknot of leafy bracts, emerges amidst the leaves. The flowers on the spike bloom sequentially from bottom to top, usually in shades of purple or burgundy. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be collected for propagation or left to potentially self-sow. As winter approaches, the foliage dies back and the bulb goes dormant, requiring a period of cooler temperatures before it can resume growth the following season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the plant commonly known as Pineapple Lily, specifically the Eucomis comosa 'Indian Summer', is through bulb division. This usually takes place in the spring when the plant has entered its active growth phase. Gardeners can carefully remove the plant from the ground or pot and gently separate the smaller offset bulbs that have formed around the base of the parent bulb. It is important to ensure that these offsets have some roots attached. Once the offsets are separated, they can be planted in a well-draining soil mix at a depth roughly twice the height of the bulb, approximately 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 centimeters). Water the newly planted offsets well and maintain consistent moisture until they have established themselves and new growth is apparent.