Pineapple lily Eucomis bicolor
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Pineapple Lily is an intriguing and ornamental garden plant with a distinctive appearance. It features a rosette of wide, strap-like leaves that are a lush green color, sometimes with a purplish or reddish tinge around the edges, giving the plant a two-toned effect. During its blooming period, the Pineapple Lily produces a stout flower stalk that is topped with a dense cluster of star-shaped flowers. These flowers are usually a soft green with purple edges, creating a bicolor look that aligns with its common name. Crowning the top of the floral spike is a tuft of small, bract-like leaves that resemble a pineapple's crown, which is a signature characteristic of the plant. The overall impression of the Pineapple Lily is a unique and exotic one, making it a standout in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Pineapple Lily, Pineapple Flower, Wine Eucomis
Common names
Eucomis punctata, Eucomis vandermerwei.
ToxicityTo humans
Pineapple lily (Eucomis bicolor) is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. However, as with many plants not typically considered edible, ingestion of parts of this plant, particularly in large quantities, may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants due to the potential presence of compounds that could be irritating to the digestive system.
To pets
Pineapple lily (Eucomis bicolor) is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. Nevertheless, similar to its effects on humans, ingestion may result in gastrointestinal upset for pets. Symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. If a pet consumes a considerable amount of the plant, or if any adverse reactions are noticed, it is best to consult a veterinarian. Generally, it is recommended to prevent pets from consuming ornamental plants to avoid any potential toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish-white
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Pineapple lily produces unique, striking flowers that can enhance the visual interest of any garden or indoor space.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide nectar to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, pineapple lily is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Easy Propagation: It can be propagated easily via offsets, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Pest Resistance: Pineapple lily is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant adds seasonal interest to gardens, with foliage from spring to summer and flowers in late summer.
- Container Gardening: It is suitable for container gardening, offering flexibility in positioning and making it accessible for those with limited space.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pineapple lily leaves can be used as a natural wrapping material for cooking food, similar to banana leaves in other cultures.
- The plant's sap may be used as a natural adhesive in some traditional crafts and repairs.
- Dried stems of pineapple lily can be incorporated into floral arrangements or wreaths for long-lasting decorations.
- The plant can be used as a teaching tool in botany classes due to its unique flower structure and pollination mechanisms.
- Pineapple lily can be cultivated for use in themed gardens, such as tropical or exotic plant displays.
- The plant's bulb can be dissected and studied to understand bulbous plant growth and development.
- Leaves and flowers of pineapple lily may be used in art projects or for printing natural patterns on fabric.
- Gardeners might use the pineapple lily as a companion plant in the vegetable garden to attract pollinators.
- As a photographic subject, the pineapple lily offers unique aesthetics for garden photographers and plant enthusiasts.
- The tall flower spikes of the pineapple lily could be used as natural markers or identifiers in a large garden or park.
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 Charm: Often called Pineapple Lily, Eucomis bicolor features a unique flower that resembles a tropical pineapple, symbolizing exotic beauty and unusual charm.
- Individuality: Its distinct appearance sets it apart from more traditional flowers, representing uniqueness and individuality.
- Surprise and Delight: The Pineapple Lily can be a surprise in temperate gardens due to its tropical appearance, symbolizing the joy of unexpected pleasures in life.
- Prosperity: The lush foliage and striking bloom can symbolize growth and abundance, which ties into the idea of prosperity.
WaterPineapple lilies, as Eucomis bicolor are commonly known, prefer consistent moisture during their growing season. Water these plants when the top inch of the soil feels dry, which may be about once or twice a week, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. Use room temperature water and pour slowly around the base of the plant, avoiding water on the foliage, with approximately 16 to 24 ounces each time for a medium-sized pot. It is important not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. During dormancy in winter, reduce the watering frequency to minimal, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightPineapple lily thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would be a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day, possibly with some afternoon shade if in a very hot climate. Indoors, a south-facing or west-facing window is suitable for providing the light levels this plant needs to flourish.
TemperaturePineapple lilies perform optimally in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. They can tolerate maximum temperatures up to 90°F and minimum temperatures down to about 50°F. However, it is crucial to protect them from frost, as they are not cold-hardy, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F can be detrimental to the plant.
PruningPruning pineapple lilies is done mainly to remove spent flowers or damaged foliage and to maintain the plant's appearance. It is best to prune right after the flowers fade, which is typically at the end of summer or early fall. Snip off the flower stalk at the base and trim away any yellowing leaves. This should be done annually to encourage new growth the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPineapple lily (Eucomis bicolor) thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or peat is ideal for ensuring proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingPineapple lily should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Best done in the spring at the beginning of the growth season.
Humidity & MistingPineapple lily prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. While it can tolerate drier air, maintaining this humidity range promotes healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist during growth.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleEucomis bicolor, commonly known as Pineapple lily, typically begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in a warm, moist environment and can take several weeks. After sprouting, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants developing a bulb, which will become the plant's storage organ. The foliage begins to form around the bulb; these leaves are long, strappy, and may have purple spots. Each year, the plant goes through a period of vegetative growth where the bulb stores energy before it enters dormancy during the colder months. In late summer, the Pineapple lily produces a characteristic flower spike resembling a pineapple, with a tall stem topped with a cluster of star-shaped flowers, usually edged in maroon. After the flowers fade, the plant sets seed and eventually the foliage dies back, signaling the end of the active growing period until the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Pineapple Lily (Eucomis bicolor) is by using offsets, which generally occurs in late summer or fall. After the plant has finished blooming and begins to go dormant, offsets, or small bulbs, can be found at the base of the parent plant. These offsets can be gently removed and planted individually. They should be planted around 4 inches (around 10 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil and spaced approximately 8 inches (20 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. It is important to maintain moisture in the soil without saturating it and to provide a sunny or partially shaded location for the newly planted offsets. With proper care, these offsets will grow into mature Pineapple Lily plants over the course of a few seasons.
