Walking through a garden or floral shop you may come across a bright golden flower that looks oddly similar to a pineapple. This tropical-inspired bloom is known as the pineapple flower, and it brings a fun pop of color to any landscape.
Overview of the Pineapple Flower
The pineapple flower goes by the scientific name of Eucomis comosa although it also may be called pineapple lily or pineapple plant. It is a bulbous perennial that blooms in mid to late summer producing a tall spike filled with pineapple-esque flowers.
Native to South Africa, pineapple flowers thrive in warm climates and make a stunning addition to cottage gardens, borders, and containers. They grow 1-3 feet tall on a sturdy stalk lined with long, strappy leaves.
Once the flower spike emerges, dozens of golden blooms open sequentially from bottom to top. Each one resembles a miniature pineapple, with overlapping, smooth bracts and a spray of central florets. The blooms last for weeks and add rich texture.
Signature Features of the Pineapple Flower
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Unique pineapple form – Overlapping bracts create the iconic fruit shape. The bracts may be edged in a reddish-brown for extra tropical flair.
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Sunny yellow color – Vibrant golden petals brighten up any garden bed or bouquet. The golden hue evokes sunshine and light.
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Grassy foliage -sword-shaped green leaves give vertical height leading up to blooms. Foliage remains evergreen in frost-free climates.
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Bold textures – Prominent, smooth bracts and central floret spikes create visual depth and interest. The bracts have a waxy finish.
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Late summer blooms – Flowers open sequentially up the spike for weeks of color when many plants have faded.
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Easy care – Pineapple flowers tolerate heat, drought, and poor soil once established. Fertilize in spring for best blooms.
How to Use Pineapple Flowers in the Landscape
Pineapple flowers make excellent accent plants for adding height, texture, and pops of color. Here are some tips for incorporating them:
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Plant in groups of 3-5 bulbs for a bold mass of color. Space 12-18 inches apart.
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Surround with annuals like zinnias, marigolds, or salvias for a tropical border.
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Allow them to self-seed freely for a naturalized, wild look over time.
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Use the blooms in cut flower arrangements. They last 1-2 weeks in water.
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Highlight them in container gardens combined with elephant ears, cannas, or bananas.
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Grow them along a sunny patio or deck for an exotic feel.
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Pair them with similarly tropical-inspired plants like bird of paradise and hibiscus.
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Mass them along a fence or property line to create a bright screen during summer.
Growing Pineapple Flowers from Bulbs
Pineapple flowers are easy to grow from bulbs planted in spring after the danger of frost has passed. Here are some tips for success:
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Select a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Amend clay soil with compost.
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Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 12 inches apart once soil has warmed. Set them on their sides.
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Water moderately for the first season to establish an extensive root system.
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Mulch bulbs to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
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Stake tall flower spikes if needed to prevent toppling.
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Remove spent spikes after flowering finishes to encourage reblooming.
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Lift and divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years to rejuvenate. Replant the divisions promptly.
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Grow in USDA zones 7-10 as a perennial. Treat as an annual or dig bulbs in colder climates.
With a bit of landscaping creativity, pineapple flowers can infuse your garden with cheerful color reminiscent of the bright, golden tropical fruit. Their bold shapes and standout colors will spark interest and conversation wherever you plant them.
Common Questions About Pineapple Flowers
Why is it called a pineapple flower?
The overlapping smooth bracts of the bloom resemble the external rind of a pineapple fruit. The yellow color and tropical look enhance the pineapple association.
What does the pineapple flower smell like?
Most pineapple lily flowers are not fragrant, unlike their fruit namesake. Some varieties may have a faint spicy scent.
How long do pineapple flowers last?
Each pineapple flower can last 2-3 weeks on the plant. The bloom spike will continue opening new flowers over a period of 4-6 weeks for an extended summer display.
Are pineapple flowers edible?
No, pineapple lily flowers are strictly ornamental and not edible. Only the actual pineapple fruit can be eaten.
Is the pineapple flower rare?
While not as common as marigolds or petunias, pineapple flowers are popular ornamental plants readily available at most garden centers in warm climate regions.
Adding Cheery Yellow Color with Pineapple Flowers
With their fruity shape and bold yellow color, pineapple flowers are a distinctive choice that brings the essence of the tropics to backyards and gardens. Their low-maintenance nature, long-lasting blooms, and stunning colors make them a summertime favorite.
Next time you want a cheerful burst of sunshine in your landscape, consider the happy, pineapple-inspired blooms of Eucomis comosa. Once established, this exotic bulb will reward you with bright color year after year.