Eucomis (Pineapple Lily)

Eucomis, the Pineapple Lily: An Architectural Garden Perennial
Eucomis, commonly known as Pineapple Lily, is a bulb-forming perennial from South Africa, valued for its upright flower spike topped with leafy green bracts that resemble a miniature pineapple. They are popular for adding a tropical flair to gardens and containers.

Understanding the Genus Eucomis
Pineapple Lily (Eucomis) is neither a true Lily nor related to the tropical fruit, despite its common name. It belongs to the genus Eucomis, a small group of ornamental plants grown from bulbs. These Eucomis plants produce a sturdy flower stalk with dozens of small, star-shaped flowers, crowned by a tuft of green bracts that gives the plant its pineapple-like appearance.

Why Pineapple Lily Flowers Thrive in Warm, Well-Drained Gardens
Native to South Africa, Pineapple Lilies evolved in regions with warm summers and well-drained soil. This origin explains their preference for sun, warmth, and dry winter conditions. While the flowers look exotic, the plants themselves fit easily into many gardens in the United States. They are hardy in USDA Zones 8-10 and suitable for Zones 3-7.

The Architectural Beauty of Pineapple Lily
Pineapple Lily stands out for its form and color. Each stout stem reaches around 18-24 inches and bears dozens of tiny, star-shaped blooms that open gradually from bottom to top. Eucomis blooms in stunning shades of white, green, pink, and purple. The broad, strappy leaves form a low rosette at the base. Leaves may be green or show purple or burgundy tones, with gently wavy edges.

Eucomis bulbs are also highly attractive to pollinators, supporting bees and beneficial insects during the late season. Their distinctive look pairs well with ornamental grasses and late-blooming perennials, creating a dynamic garden landscape. Pineapple Lilies are also excellent as cut flowers.

When and Where Pineapple Lily Fits Best
Pineapple Lily works well for gardeners who want something different without adding complexity. These plants suit both beginners and experienced gardeners.

You may enjoy growing Pineapple Lilies if you want:

• A bold accent plant for garden beds, borders, and containers
• Reliable summer bloom after fall-planted bulbs and early annuals have faded
• Plants that perform well in containers and pots, especially on sunny patios
• A tropical accent that still feels refined and structured

Eucomis is especially effective in modern gardens, tropical-themed designs, and mixed borders where foliage matters as much as flowers.

Popular Pineapple Lily Varieties: From Autumnalis White to Comosa Giant Mix
From compact patio stars to stately garden focal points, Pineapple Lilies offer incredible versatility in color and form. Our curated collection at DutchGrown features standouts like:

• Eucomis “Autumnalis White”: This perennial stands out with its striking flower spikes that rise from a base of broad, strap-like green leaves.
• Eucomis “Bicolor”: This variety showcases tall, upright flower spikes adorned with star-shaped, pale green blooms marked by deep purple edges.
• Eucomis “Comosa Giant Mix”: This mix features clusters of star-shaped flowers that form dense, vertical spikes crowned by a tuft of green bracts.

Growing Pineapple Lilies
The effortless grace of the Pineapple Lily makes it an enchanting addition to any landscape. If you’re ready to bring a splash of tropical color to your summer borders, here is how to get started:

• Time: Plant the bulbs in the spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 65 degrees F.
• Location: Pineapple Lilies prefer full sun to partial shade, receiving at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. Eucomis prefers a loamy or sandy soil that does not retain excess moisture. Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and drainage.
• Depth and spacing: Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep. Space bulbs 10-12 inches apart to give them room to grow.
• Water: Water gently to settle the soil around the bulb. Water Pineapple Lilies to keep the soil evenly moist during their active growing season in spring and summer, but avoid soggy soil. In the fall, after blooming, water Pineapple Lilies more sparingly and provide dry conditions when they are dormant to prevent rot.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins.
• Winter care: In colder climates, dig up bulbs in the fall after the foliage has died back. Clean and dry the bulbs, then store them indoors during the winter months. In milder climates, you can leave the bulbs in the ground with a layer of mulch for protection.

Tip: Follow our growing guide “How to Grow Eucomis” for more in-depth information.

Top-Quality Pineapple Lily Bulbs for Sale at DutchGrown
Choosing the right Pineapple Lily bulbs makes a visible difference in how your plants perform. If you are looking for Pineapple Lily bulbs for sale that reflect careful selection and deep horticultural knowledge, our collection offers varieties chosen for US gardens. We select only top-sized bulbs, grown for strong flower spikes, healthy foliage, and consistent bloom. With more than 140 years of experience, we understand how bulb quality influences long-term garden success. Explore our Eucomis selection and plant with confidence. We ship throughout the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eucomis

Do Pineapple Lilies Come Back Every Year?
Pineapple Lilies can come back every year when grown in the right conditions. Pineapple Lily is a bulbous perennial that is hardy in USDA Zones 8-10 and suitable for Zones 3-7.

Do Pineapple Lilies like Sun or Shade?
Pineapple Lilies prefer full sun for the best growth and flowering. They perform best with 4–6 hours of sunlight each day, which supports strong stems and abundant blooms. While they tolerate partial shade, less sun often results in fewer flowers and slower growth, especially in cooler climates.

What Do You Do with Pineapple Lily After Flowering?
After flowering, allow the foliage to remain until it naturally dies back. This helps the bulb store energy for next season. In colder climates, dig up the bulbs in (early) fall, clean and dry them, and store them in a cool, dry place over winter. In milder regions, leave bulbs in the ground and protect them with mulch.

What Does a Pineapple Lily Smell Like?
Not all Pineapple Lilies smell, but if they do, they have a mild, unusual scent rather than a strong floral fragrance. Some varieties produce an earthy odor often compared to boiled potatoes, which helps attract pollinators. The scent is generally subtle and only noticeable up close, making it unobtrusive in the garden.