Eucomis (Pineapple Lily)

Eucomis, the Pineapple Lily: an architectural garden perennial
Eucomis, commonly known as the Pineapple Lily, is a bulbous perennial native to South Africa, prized for its upright flower spikes crowned with leafy green bracts that resemble miniature pineapples. These striking plants are popular for bringing a touch of tropical flair to garden borders and containers alike.

Neither a true Lily, nor related to the tropical fruit
Despite its common name, the Pineapple Lily is neither a true Lily nor related to the tropical fruit. It belongs to the genus Eucomis – a small group of ornamental, bulbous plants. These distinctive plants produce sturdy flower spikes adorned with dozens of small, star-shaped flowers, topped with a tuft of green bracts that give the plant its characteristic pineapple-like appearance.

From South Africa to the British garden
Native to South Africa, Pineapple Lilies have evolved in regions characterised by warm summers and well-drained soils. This natural habitat explains their preference for full sun, warmth, and dry conditions during the winter months. Although the flowers appear exotic, the plants themselves are surprisingly adaptable and can be successfully grown in a wide range of garden settings across the UK.

The architectural beauty of Pineapple Lily
The Pineapple Lily is remarkable for both its striking form and vibrant colour. In mid-to-late summer, Pineapple Lilies send up thick flower stalks topped with dense clusters of star-shaped flowers. Eucomis blooms in captivating shades of white, green, pink, and purple. At the base, broad, strappy leaves create a low rosette. These leaves may be green or display purple or burgundy tones, often with gently undulating edges.

These summer-flowering bulbs are also highly attractive to pollinators, providing valuable support to bees and other beneficial insects during the late season. Their distinctive appearance complements ornamental grasses and late-flowering perennials, creating a dynamic, textured garden display. Pineapple Lilies also make excellent cut flowers, adding a touch of the exotic to indoor arrangements.

When and where Pineapple Lily fits best
The Pineapple Lily is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking something a little different, without adding unnecessary complexity. These plants are well-suited to both novice and experienced gardeners alike.

You may find Pineapple Lilies particularly appealing if you are looking for:

• A striking feature plant for garden beds, borders, or containers
• Reliable summer blooms once autumn-planted bulbs and early annuals have finished
• Plants that thrive in pots and containers, especially on sunny patios
• An exotic-style garden that remains elegant and well-structured

Pineapple Lilies can be planted in mixed borders, tropical-themed gardens, or as focal points in container plantings. They have attractive arching foliage that adds visual interest even when not in bloom.

Popular Pineapple Lily varieties: From Autumnalis White to Comosa Giant Mix
Ranging from compact patio highlights to majestic focal points in the garden, Pineapple Lilies offer remarkable versatility in both colour and form. Our carefully curated collection at DutchGrown includes standout varieties such as:

• Eucomis ‘Autumnalis White’: This perennial is notable for its striking flower spikes that emerge from a base of broad, strap-like green foliage.
• Eucomis ‘Bicolor’: Eucomis Bicolor is a specific variety of Pineapple Lily that features purple-edged, pale green star-shaped flowers.
• Eucomis ‘Comosa Giant Mix’: A vibrant mix producing dense, vertical spikes of star-shaped flowers, each topped with a tuft of green bracts.

Growing Pineapple Lilies
The effortless elegance of the Pineapple Lily makes it a captivating addition to any garden. If you're ready to introduce a splash of tropical colour to your summer borders, here's how to get started:

• Timing: Plant the bulbs in spring, once all risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 18°C.
• Location: Pineapple Lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4–6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Eucomis prefers loamy or sandy soil that doesn't retain excess moisture. Incorporating organic matter can help to improve both structure and drainage.
• Depth and spacing: Plant bulbs 7–10 cm deep and space them 25–30 cm apart to allow room for growth.
• Watering: Water gently after planting to settle the soil around the bulb. Pineapple Lilies should be watered consistently during the active growing season and kept dry during winter dormancy.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins.
• Winter Care: In colder areas, lift the bulbs in autumn once the foliage has died back. Clean and dry them thoroughly, then store the bulbs indoors in a cool, dry place over winter.

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

Top-quality Pineapple Lily bulbs for sale at DutchGrown
Selecting high-quality Pineapple Lily bulbs can make a noticeable difference in how your plants perform. If you're seeking Pineapple Lily bulbs for sale that reflect expert selection and deep horticultural insight, our collection features varieties carefully chosen for success in the garden. We offer only top-sized bulbs, cultivated to produce strong flower spikes, healthy foliage, and reliable blooms. With over 140 years of experience, we understand the vital role bulb quality plays in long-term gardening success. Explore our Eucomis range and plant with confidence. We deliver across the United Kingdom.

Frequently asked questions about Eucomis

Do Pineapple Lilies come back every year?
Pineapple Lilies can return year after year when grown in suitable conditions, as they are bulbous perennials.

Do Pineapple Lilies like sun or shade?
Pineapple Lilies thrive in full sun, which encourages optimal growth and flowering. They perform best with 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, helping to produce sturdy stems and an abundance of blooms. While they can tolerate partial shade, reduced sunlight often leads to fewer flowers and slower growth, particularly in cooler climates.

What do you do with Pineapple Lily after flowering?
After flowering, allow the foliage to remain until it dies back naturally, as this enables the bulb to store energy for the following season. In colder regions, lift the bulbs in (early) autumn, then clean and dry them before storing in a cool, dry place over winter. Eucomis is best overwintered indoors in a cool greenhouse.

What does a Pineapple Lily smell like?
Not all Pineapple Lilies are scented, but when they are, the fragrance tends to be mild and distinctive rather than strongly floral. Some varieties emit an earthy aroma, often likened to the smell of boiled potatoes, which attracts pollinators. The scent is typically subtle and only detectable at close range, making it unobtrusive in the garden.