Eucomis Plants: The Striking and Easy-to-Grow Pineapple Flowers

Plants by Genus

Welcome to our perennial plant nursery!
Imagine More Perennial Plants Than You Can Imagine,

Delivered To You.

Free Shipping to most states

Hosta

Hemerocallis

Sedum

Heuchera

Phlox

Echinacea

Whitehall

Iris

Helleborus

Coreopsis

View all Brands

Hosta

Hemerocallis

Sedum

Heuchera

Phlox

Echinacea

Whitehall

Iris

Helleborus

Coreopsis

Dianthus

Astilbe

Hibiscus

Salvia

Liriope

Monarda

Veronica

Baptisia

Clematis

Lavandula

Achillea

Aquilegia

Buddleia

Leucanthemum

Ajuga

Carex

Delosperma

Delphinium

Hedera

Paeonia

Gaillardia

Lantana

Papaver

Sempervivum

Campanula

Heucherella

Digitalis

Geranium

Kniphofia

Mangave

Nepeta

Agastache

Miscanthus

Panicum

Vinca

Alcea

Athyrium

Perovskia

Aster

Lupinus

Penstemon

Ophiopogon

Primula

Anemone

Dicentra

LAGERSTROEMIA

Thymus

Euphorbia

Iberis

Pennisetum

Stokesia

Tradescantia

Brunnera

Platycodon

Verbena

Agave

Allium

Rudbeckia

Bergenia

Gaura

Heliopsis

Lamium

Pulmonaria

Acorus

Calamagrostis

Epimedium

Euonymus

Lobelia

Pachysandra

Polemonium

Amsonia

Armeria

Asclepias

Gypsophila

Ligularia

Scabiosa

Stachys

Tiarella

Viola

Artemisia

Aruncus

Dryopteris

Colocasia

Hakonechloa

Liatris

Lysimachia

Mazus

Schizachyrium

Tricyrtis

Alstroemeria

View all Brands

Eucomis are bulbous perennials native to southern Africa. They are commonly known as pineapple lilies or pineapple flowers. Eucomis plants have strap-shaped leaves and tall, erect stems topped with a cluster of star-shaped flowers. The flowers can be white, pink, or purple. Eucomis plants are relatively easy to care for and make a great addition to the garden.

The name Eucomis comes from the Greek words "eu" meaning "good" and "kome" meaning "hair". This refers to the tuft of hair-like bracts that crown the flower spike.

Eucomis plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 7-10. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Eucomis plants can be propagated by division or by seed.

Here are some of the benefits of Eucomis:

Beautiful and long-lasting flowers.
Relatively easy to care for.
Drought tolerant.
Deer resistant.
Good choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.

If you are looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance plant for your garden, Eucomis is a great choice.

Plant the bulb 2.5 times the depth of the bulb.

Eucomis

Eucomis 'African Night' PP31155 (25) BR Plants

MSRP:

Now: $265.16

Choose Options
Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Princess Bride' PPAF (25) BR Plants

MSRP:

Now: $284.46

Choose Options
Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Purple Reign' PP35161 (25) BR

MSRP:

Now: $284.46

Choose Options
Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Safari Adventure' PP31156 (25) BR Plants

MSRP:

Now: $265.16

Choose Options
Compare

Eucomis

Eucomis 'African Night' PP31155 (25) BR Plants

Eucomis 'African Night' PP31155 (25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Pineapple LilyWant a tropical look that's hardy to zone 6? Look no further than 'African Night'. The name alludes to the rich, burgundy leaves that emerge in early summer. By the time the...

MSRP:

Now: $265.16
Choose Options Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Princess Bride' PPAF (25) BR Plants

Eucomis 'Princess Bride' PPAF (25) Bare Root Plants Proven Winners® CROWNING GLORY Collection Common Name: Pineapple LilyNo matter which way you slice it, this new collection of Pineapple Lilies from Proven Winners is going to stand out in your...

MSRP:

Now: $284.46
Choose Options Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Purple Reign' PP35161 (25) BR

Eucomis 'Purple Reign' PP35161 (25) Bare Root Plants Proven Winners® CROWNING GLORY Collection Common Name: Pineapple LilyNo matter which way you slice it, this new collection of Pineapple Lilies from Proven Winners is going to stand out in your...

MSRP:

Now: $284.46
Choose Options Compare
Eucomis

Eucomis 'Safari Adventure' PP31156 (25) BR Plants

Eucomis 'Safari Adventure' PP31156 (25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Pineapple LilyGet that tropical look right at home in your zone 6 garden! This takes you for an adventure all season long, beginning in early summer, when deep olive green, wide,...

MSRP:

Now: $265.16
Choose Options Compare

Compare Selected

What are the characteristics of Eucomis?

Eucomis, commonly known as pineapple lily, is a bulbous perennial plant native to South Africa. Here are its characteristics:

Flowers: Eucomis is known for its showy flowers that appear in summer to fall. The flowers are star-shaped and come in various colors like white, green, pink, or purple. They form a dense, cylindrical spike (raceme) topped with a 'cap' of leafy bracts, giving the appearance of a pineapple. The flowering season typically lasts for 6 to 8 weeks.
Foliage: Eucomis has broad, strap-shaped leaves that form a basal rosette. The leaves are usually green, although some cultivars have dark purple or burgundy foliage.
Height: Depending on the species, Eucomis will grow 10-30 inches in height.
Spread: The plant will spread slowly by bulb offsets, around 12-18 inches.
Growing Conditions: Eucomis prefers well-drained, fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. They need to be kept moist but not soggy during the growing season.
Hardiness: Eucomis is not very winter hardy. In colder climates (zones six and below), the bulbs need to be lifted in the fall and stored in a cool, dry location over winter.

How Do I Plant Eucomis?

There are two main ways to plant Eucomis: outdoors in the ground or in containers. Here is a guide for both methods:

Planting Eucomis Outdoors:

Timing: The best time to plant Eucomis outdoors is in the spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 65°F (18°C).
Location: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Eucomis prefers well-drained, fertile soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you may need to amend it with sand or compost to improve drainage.
Planting: Dig holes 3 to 4 inches deep and space them 10 to 12 inches apart. Plant the Eucomis bulbs with the pointy end facing up. Water thoroughly after planting.

Planting Eucomis in Containers:

Container: Choose a pot with drainage holes that is large enough to accommodate the mature size of the Eucomis plant.
Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix. You can use a commercial potting mix or create your own by mixing potting soil with perlite or sand.
Planting: Plant the Eucomis bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep at the base with the pointy end facing up. Water thoroughly after planting.

General Care Tips:

Watering: Water Eucomis regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater. The soil should be moist but not soggy.
Fertilizing: You can fertilize Eucomis with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Winter Care: In colder climates (zones 6 and below), Eucomis bulbs need to be lifted in the fall after the foliage has died back. Dig up the bulbs carefully and store them in a cool, dry location over winter. You can store them in a paper bag or cardboard box with some peat moss or vermiculite to keep them from drying out.

With proper care, Eucomis will thrive and add beauty to your garden for many years.

What Are varieties Of Eucomis?

There are many varieties of Eucomis, but some of the most popular ones include:

Eucomis comosa: This is the most common type of Eucomis. It has green leaves and green or white flowers. There are many cultivars of Eucomis comosa available, including 'Sparkling Burgundy' (with dark burgundy foliage), 'Oakhurst' (with variegated leaves),
Eucomis autumnalis: This variety has green leaves and orange-red flowers. It blooms in late summer to fall.
Eucomis regia: This is a smaller variety of Eucomis that only grows about twelve inches tall. It has green leaves and white flowers.
Eucomis bicolor: This variety has green leaves with purple spots and white flowers with purple markings.
Eucomis zambesiaca: This variety has green leaves and yellow flowers.

These are just a few of the many varieties of Eucomis available. With so many different colors and sizes to choose from, you can find a Eucomis that is perfect for your garden.

How Do I Care For Eucomis In My Garden?

Providing the Right Environment:

Light: Eucomis thrives in locations with full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. Amending heavy clay soil with sand or compost is recommended to ensure good drainage and prevent rotting. Eucomis prefers fertile soil, so adding organic matter like compost during planting can be beneficial.

Watering:

Frequency: Water Eucomis regularly during the growing season (spring to early fall), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to bulb rot.
Amount: Aim to provide around 1 inch of moisture per week. Adjust based on rainfall and weather conditions.

Feeding:

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. A light application of a liquid fertilizer diluted according to package instructions is recommended.
Organic option: Alternatively, you can use a slow-release organic fertilizer applied at the beginning of the growing season.

Seasonal Care:

Summer: During hot, dry periods, you might need to increase watering frequency to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Fall: After flowering is finished and the foliage starts dying back (usually late summer or early fall), you have two options:
- Leave in ground (warmer climates - zones 7 and above): In areas with mild winters, you can leave the bulbs in the ground. Apply a thick mulch layer of bark or leaves around the base of the plant to protect the bulbs from frost.
- Lift bulbs (colder climates - zones 6 and below): If you live in a colder climate, it's best to lift the bulbs after the foliage dies back. Carefully dig up the bulbs, letting them dry for a few days. Store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation over winter (paper bag or cardboard box with some peat moss or vermiculite).

Additional Care Tips:

Staking: Taller Eucomis varieties might require staking, especially towards the end of the season when the flower heads become heavy. Use a cane or stake to provide support and prevent the flower stalk from flopping over.
Deadheading: You can deadhead the spent flower stalks after flowering is finished to improve the appearance of the plant. However, it's not necessary and some gardeners prefer to leave the seed capsules for ornamental interest.
Propagation: Eucomis propagates by offsets produced by the main bulb. You can carefully divide these offsets in spring or fall and replant them to create new plants.

By following these care tips, you can ensure your Eucomis thrives and adds a touch of exotic beauty to your garden for many seasons to come.

Do Eucomis attract pollinators?

The attraction of pollinators by Eucomis is a bit of an interesting story. Here is the breakdown:

Generally, not considered pollinator-attracting: Unlike many flowering plants, Eucomis doesn't specifically attract bees, butterflies, or other common pollinators.
Certain species have a unique strategy: Some Eucomis species, particularly Eucomis regia, have a rather unpleasant odor described as similar to rotting flesh. This odor actually attracts flies, specifically carrion flies, which help pollinate the flowers.
Other species might attract different pollinators: Other Eucomis varieties might have subtle fragrances or nectar that attract different pollinators, but research is not as extensive on this.

So, while Eucomis may not be the go-to choice for a pollinator garden, some species have developed their own unique strategy for attracting pollinators, and others might have more subtle attractants that have not been fully studied.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Eucomis?

Eucomis are generally considered to be pest and disease resistant, but there are a few things to watch out for:

Pests:
- Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures love to munch on leaves, especially new growth. They are more active in moist conditions.
- Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can infest the foliage.
Diseases:
- Bulb rot: This fungal disease can occur in overly wet conditions. It causes the bulbs to soften and rot.

Here is how to manage these potential problems:

Pest control:
- For slugs and snails: Use physical barriers like copper tape or crushed eggshells around the base of the plant. You can also use traps or organic baits specifically designed for slugs and snails.
- For aphids: You can try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If the infestation is severe, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used according to label instructions.
Disease prevention:
- Proper drainage: Ensure your Eucomis is planted in well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot. Avoid overwatering, especially during cool or wet weather.
- Good air circulation: Avoid overcrowding plants, which can trap moisture and create favorable conditions for fungal diseases.

By keeping an eye out for these potential issues and taking preventive measures, you can help your Eucomis stay healthy and thrive.

Can I Use Eucomis in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, Eucomis, also known as pineapple lily, can be a striking addition to floral arrangements! Here's why it works:

Unique Appearance: Eucomis boasts exotic-looking flowers with a dense cluster of star-shaped blooms topped by leafy bracts, resembling a pineapple. This unique structure adds a touch of the unexpected to arrangements.
Color Options: Eucomis comes in various colors like white, green, pink, and purple, offering versatility to match your desired color scheme.
Long Vase Life: Eucomis is known for its long vase life, lasting up to 2 weeks with proper care. This makes them a good value for arrangements.

However, there are a few things to consider when using Eucomis in cut flower arrangements:

Stem Support: Unlike true lilies, Eucomis flowers grow on a single, fleshy stem emerging from the bulb base. This stem might not offer enough rigidity in arrangements. You can use a floral pick or skewer inserted into the stem for support.
Hydration Issues: Eucomis stems don't always absorb water well in traditional floral foam. Soaking the stems for a few hours before arranging or using a water tube inserted into the stem can help.

Here are some tips for using Eucomis in floral arrangements:

Pair with complementary flowers: Eucomis can be paired well with various flowers depending on the desired style. Consider using roses, lilies (different varieties than Eucomis), dahlias, or greenery for a lush look.
Highlight the unique form: Since the flower shape is quite distinct, consider using Eucomis as a focal point in the arrangement.
Consider the color scheme: Eucomis offers a range of colors, so you can choose blooms that complement your overall color palette.

With a little creativity and these tips, Eucomis can be a fantastic addition to your floral arrangements, adding a touch of the exotic and long-lasting beauty.

Is Eucomis Invasive?

The invasiveness of Eucomis depends on your location. Here's a breakdown:

Generally low invasive risk: In most areas, Eucomis is not considered highly invasive. It spreads slowly by bulb offsets and requires specific conditions to establish itself aggressively.
Potential for invasiveness in some areas: However, Eucomis can be invasive in certain regions with warm climates and suitable growing conditions, particularly in Hawaii.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Eucomis?

The best time to propagate Eucomis depends on the chosen method:

Leaf cuttings: Early to mid-summer is the ideal timeframe for propagating Eucomis through leaf cuttings. This allows sufficient time for the cuttings to establish roots and potentially form a bulb before winter arrives.
Bulb division: Propagating Eucomis by dividing offsets from mature bulbs can be done in late winter or early spring (before active growth starts). Fall (after flowering) is another possible time, but it's less preferable because the offsets might not have enough time to establish a strong root system before winter.
Seed: Eucomis seeds can be collected in autumn and sown in the spring. However, this method is generally slower than the other two and can take several years for the seedlings to reach flowering size.

What are the benefits of planting Eucomis?

Here are some of the benefits of planting Eucomis in your garden:

Unique and Striking Appearance: Eucomis boasts exotic-looking flowers with a dense cluster of star-shaped blooms topped by leafy bracts, resembling a pineapple. This unique structure adds a conversation starter to your garden beds or containers.
Long Bloom Time: Eucomis flowers typically bloom for 6 to 8 weeks in summer or fall, providing a sustained burst of color in your garden during a time when some other perennials might be fading.
Variety of Colors: Eucomis comes in various colors like white, green, pink, and purple, offering options to match your desired color scheme and create a vibrant display.
Low-Maintenance: Eucomis is generally considered a low-maintenance plant. They are resistant to most pests and diseases and do not require frequent watering once established.
Attracts Pollinators (to some extent): While not specifically known for attracting bees and butterflies, some Eucomis species, particularly Eucomis regia, have a unique strategy to attract flies for pollination. Other varieties might have subtle fragrances or nectar that attract different pollinators.
Versatility: Eucomis can be planted in flower beds, borders, rock gardens, or even containers, offering flexibility in your garden design.
Long Vase Life (if used as cut flowers): If you are looking for cut flowers for arrangements, Eucomis can last up to 2 weeks in a vase with proper care.

Overall, Eucomis offers a unique combination of beauty, long bloom time, low maintenance, and versatility, making them a great addition to many gardens.

Shop by Category

Shop by Brand

Shop by Brand

Eucomis

Eucomis 'African Night' PP31155 (25) BR Plants

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Princess Bride' PPAF (25) BR Plants

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Purple Reign' PP35161 (25) BR

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Safari Adventure' PP31156 (25) BR Plants

Eucomis

Eucomis 'African Night' PP31155 (25) BR Plants

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Princess Bride' PPAF (25) BR Plants

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Purple Reign' PP35161 (25) BR

Eucomis

Eucomis 'Safari Adventure' PP31156 (25) BR Plants