code: 503
It is easy to keep going if allowed to remain dormant
Family: Asparagaceae
Common name: Pineapple flower, Wine Eucomis
Plant Classification: Half hardy bulb Hardy bulb Hardy perennial
Minimum Height: 60 cm
Maximum Height: 90 cm
Packet Content(approx.): 12
One of the most extravagant and impressive forms for the garden, this variety makes a clump of long, wavy-margined leaves, with stout stems, bearing large numbers of greenish-white flowers, all topped by a rosette of small bracts. It is easy to keep going if allowed to remain dormant in winter and makes an absolutely fabulous display if grown in a large pot! Few good seeds collected. The variety comosa flowers are usually white, or greenish yellow, but are sometimes pink, or purplish, with a purple ovary.
Sowing advice:
Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit 5mm deep, in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination. Many species will only germinate in the spring after a good chilling or freezing in the moist seed tray in the winter. Grow on seedlings in small pots before planting out into sharply draining compost in a pot, or the open ground in a well-drained spot.
Uses:
Eucomis species are commonly known for their medicinal anti-inflammatory properties and are, therefore, used in traditional medicinal treatments. E. comosa is used to treat rheumatism.
It can also be used as a border plant for adding a different look to the garden. It also provides a long-lasting cut flower; florists can attest to that.
Gardening tips:
Performs best in full sun in rich, moist and well-drained soils. While part shade is tolerated, flowering may not be as profuse. Remember that great quantities of water must be provided in the summer, and that the regular provision of extra nutrients is not just an added luxury.
*Perfect for beds and borders or containers.
* Eucomis is deer resistant, pest free and ridiculously easy to grow.
*Propagate by seed, sown in fall or spring. Alternatively remove offsets in spring. Bury the bulb 3 in. (7 cm) below the soil surface (shallower in a pot). Position bulbs 5 in. apart (12 cm).
* After the blossoms fade, you can discard the bulbs or save them to re-grow the following summer. Fertilize regularly if you plan to re-grow them. If you live in a cool area (hardiness zones 3-6) and want to save your bulbs, you may lift and clean them for winter storage. Bulbs in pots may be stored indoors right in their pots, ready for use the next summer.
* Native to South Africa
