Eucomis Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Eucomis plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Pineapple Flower, and Pineapple Lily: Cultivation & Garden Use

Eucomis are half hardy bulbs that reach between 60 and 90 cm (2 to 3 feet) in height.

They bear toilet brush shaped heads that carry tiny stellar flowers of green or white.

The foilagge is attractive and sword shaped.

Eucomis by Wallygrom.

The size of the plant makes them ideal for use in borders.

Some of the common names for Eucomis include Pineapple Flower and Pineapple Lily.

How to Grow Pineapple Flower and other Eucomis Plants in the Garden

The bulbs of Eucomis plant species, such as Pineapple Flower, should be sown by planting at a depth of 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) in the spring.

Pineapple Flower likes to grow in a sunny location of the garden. This should have good drainage, but the soil type is not of great importance.

If you prefer to grow Pineapple flowers from seeds, then they should be sown in the spring (just cover them with topsoil). Alternatively the seedlings can be started off inside at the beginning of spring.

Germination of Eucomis takes about three to four weeks at a temperature of 21 to 24 degrees centigrade (70 to 75°F).

It will take about 5 or 6 years before Pineapple flowers that have been grown from seeds will come into bloom.

Caring for Eucomis Plants

Once Pineapple flowers (Eucomis plant) are established, more can be had by dividing them in the spring. Eucomis plants are quite easy to grow. The soil should be kept moist (even in winter apply a light watering), and a light fertiliser should be applied when the plants are growing.

In very cold areas, it may be necessary to bring Eucomis bulbs indoors in the winter. This will help to protect them from harsh weather.

Common Questions

How many members does the Eucomis genus have?

The Eucomis genus consists of about 10-15 species.

Do members of Eucomis make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Eucomis, or Pineapple Lilies, are excellent in borders or containers, with their dramatic, pineapple-like flower spikes.

Which Eucomis species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Eucomis comosa and Eucomis bicolor, both commonly known as Pineapple Lily, are often grown by gardeners.

Are members of the Eucomis plant genus fragrant?

Yes, some Eucomis species are known for their sweet fragrance.

What is the perfect location to grow Eucomis?

Eucomis enjoys full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. They thrive in containers or sunny borders.

Is Eucomis invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Eucomis is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Eucomis plants from my garden?

For Eucomis, you would need to dig up the bulb from the ground. Take care to remove all of the bulb to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Eucomis genus, commonly known as Pineapple Lily, consists of flowering plants native to southern Africa. These bulbous perennials are admired for their unique, pineapple-like flower spikes, which appear in summer, typically in shades of white, pink, or purple.

Eucomis plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They can be grown from bulbs, which should be planted in the spring. With their tropical look, they make excellent container plants and can also add an exotic touch to borders. They are generally not frost-tolerant and may need winter protection in cooler climates.

I hope that you found this guide on how to grow Eucomis plants in your garden. You may also enjoy my gardening guides on how to grow Yucca glauca, Yucca plant, and Hyacinthus plants.