Pineapple Lily Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Sparkling Burgundy' pineapple lily is an ornamental plant that features a rosette of strappy leaves. These leaves are a distinctive deep purple or burgundy color, providing a striking visual contrast against green foliage typically found in gardens. As it matures, the color of foliage can switch to a lush green with purple undertones. The plant is named for its flower spike, which resembles a pineapple in shape and texture. The flower spike is topped with a dense cluster of star-shaped flowers that can range in color from pale pink to lush violet, with this cluster crowned by a tuft of leaf-like bracts that mimic the look of a pineapple. This combination of the vibrant and luxuriant leaf color along with the distinctive and exotic flower spike makes the 'Sparkling Burgundy' pineapple lily a popular choice for adding a splash of tropical flair to temperate gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Pineapple Lily, Burgundy Pineapple Lily, Sparkling Burgundy Pineapple Flower
Common names
Eucomis comosa
ToxicityTo humans
Pineapple lily is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, like with many plants, it's generally advised not to consume any part of ornamental plants as they are not intended for human consumption and can cause varying levels of gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals.
To pets
Pineapple lily is considered to be non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. However, ingestion of plant materials could potentially cause mild stomach upset for pets. If a pet ingests a large quantity or exhibits symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Burgundy
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: The 'Sparkling Burgundy' pineapple lily provides striking visual interest with its deep purple foliage and dramatic flower spikes that resemble miniature pineapples.
- Garden versatility: It is suitable for a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and as a focal point in garden design due to its unique appearance.
- Attracts pollinators: The pineapple lily's flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating other plants in the garden.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, the plant is quite drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens and regions with occasional water restrictions.
- Low maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once it is established, as it is not prone to many pests and diseases.
- Seasonal interest: It provides seasonal interest from the emergent spring foliage, through summer blooming, and into the autumn when seed heads may persist.
- Bulb propagation: It is easy to propagate by dividing the plant's bulbs, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Deer resistance: The foliage and flowers are typically resistant to deer, reducing the likelihood of damage from wildlife browsing.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pineapple lily's dried flower stalks can be used in floral arrangements, adding an exotic and lasting element to the display.
- The leaves of the pineapple lily can be used in crafts for making impressions in clay or plaster, leaving a unique texture or pattern.
- This plant can be planted amongst vegetables in a potager garden, adding an ornamental touch to a functional space.
- Pineapple lily can be used in educational settings like schools to teach students about bulb growth and plant life cycles.
- As a photography subject, the pineapple lily provides a captivating focal point due to its unique structure and color.
- In theme gardens, such as a "purple" garden, 'Sparkling Burgundy' can provide a rich color contrast with its deep burgundy foliage.
- The juice from crushed leaves may be used as a natural dye for fabrics or paper, offering a subtle color variation.
- The unusual shape and color of the pineapple lily can inspire art and design projects, including fashion and textile design.
- During garden tours or open gardens, pineapple lily serves as a conversation starter due to its unique appearance.
- For culinary presentation, a single pineapple lily flower can be used as a dramatic garnish for large platters or buffet displays.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Pineapple Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Pineapple Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Exotic Beauty: The Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy', commonly known as Pineapple Lily, features striking purple foliage and flower spikes that resemble pineapples, symbolizing unique and exotic beauty.
- Surprise and Astonishment: Its unusual appearance can be a symbol of surprise or astonishment, as it defies the usual expectations of how a plant should look.
- Prosperity and Abundance: The Pineapple Lily's resemblance to the fruit pineapple, which is a traditional symbol of hospitality, prosperity, and abundance, lends these meanings to the plant as well.
- Hospitality: In line with the pineapple symbolism, the plant also represents warmth, welcome, and friendship.
WaterPineapple lilies should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. During the growing season, typically from spring to fall, water the plant every 5 to 7 days with about 1 to 2 gallons of water, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. Water directly at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During the dormant season, reduce watering to once every 2 to 3 weeks, giving enough water to keep the soil from completely drying out, which might be around 1 gallon.
LightPineapple lilies prefer full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Place them where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily; however, some afternoon shade is beneficial in regions with very intense sunlight. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal to protect the vibrant leaf color without causing sun scorch.
TemperaturePineapple lilies thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and should be protected from temperatures below 50 degrees. They can tolerate short periods of cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure to cold can damage the plant. The ideal growing condition for these plants is a warm, consistent temperature within the mentioned range.
PruningPineapple lilies require minimal pruning, which is mainly removing spent flower stalks and yellow or dead leaves. The best time for pruning is after flowering or in early spring to tidy up the plant. Pruning is done annually to encourage healthier growth and flowering for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPineapple lily prefers well-draining soil with loamy to sandy composition and a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix containing peat, perlite, and sand in equal parts works well. Amend soil with organic matter to enhance fertility.
RepottingPineapple lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years. They need fresh soil to provide nutrients and to accommodate the growth of the bulb.
Humidity & MistingPineapple lily thrives in moderate humidity levels. Ensure ambient humidity is neither too low nor too high, ideally around 40-50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate water.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA.
Life cyclePineapple lily 'Sparkling Burgundy' starts its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant through winter. As temperatures warm in spring, foliage emerges, initially deep purple before turning green as it matures, with robust strappy leaves. Throughout the summer, the pineapple lily sends up a striking flower spike, resembling a mini pineapple with burgundy flowers and top-knot of bracts. Once flowering is finished, seeds may be produced if pollinators have been active; these can be collected for propagation. After blooming, the plant begins to die back, with foliage yellowing and withering as it goes dormant again for the winter. This cycle repeats annually, with bulbs able to divide to create new plants over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Pineapple Lily, scientifically known as Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy', is through the division of its bulb offsets. These offsets, or bulblets, form around the base of the parent bulb and can be carefully separated when the plant is dormant, typically in the fall after the foliage dies back. To propagate, gardeners should gently unearth the bulbs and remove the offsets that are about a third the size of the main bulb. These small bulbs can then be replanted immediately in well-draining soil at a depth roughly three times the height of the bulb, which usually means about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters). It can take a few years for the new plants to flower, but this vegetative method preserves the unique characteristics of the 'Sparkling Burgundy' variety.
