Eucomis

Family. Asparagaceae.

Origin: South Africa 

Description. Eucomis or pineapple lily is a small genus containing only 10 herbaceous, bulbous plants. The leaves are basal, strap-shaped, green, gracefully curved, forming a rosette. The edges of the leaf blades are often corrugated. There are varieties with burgundy and spotted leaves. Strong erect peduncles bear a spike-shaped cylindrical inflorescence, topped with a bunch of small leaflets. In appearance, the inflorescence resembles a pineapple. The flowers are white, pink, burgundy, greenish, yellow, purple, open sequentially - from the bottom up. Unfortunately, some species of eucomis have an unpleasant odor that attracts flies - pollinators.

Height. Up to 60 - 90 cm.

Planting and care

Reproduction

Most often propagated by dividing adult plants approximately every 4 years or as needed. As they develop, daughter bulblets appear near the mother bush, which are planted during transplantation. Specimens grown from daughter bulblets bloom at the age of 2 - 6 years. Seeds.

Temperature conditions

Eucomis prefers warm conditions all year round with temperatures between 16 - 24°C. During the winter months, the room temperature should not fall below 10°C as this can harm the plants.

Flower care

Trim old leaves and wilting flower stalks at the base to maintain an attractive appearance. In summer, it is worth taking the pot outside, providing protection from direct sunlight, strong gusts of wind and heavy rainfall.

When does bloom?

Flowering time is summer. 

Purpose

Flower stalks are used for cutting and do not lose their attractiveness in water for a long time. Representatives of this species can be used for forcing - planted adult bulbs will form flower stalks in about 6 weeks.

Lighting

Eucomis loves light, but the leaves should be shaded in spring and summer when the sun is very active. Ideally, the bushes should receive several hours of direct sunlight daily - morning and evening. The pot is turned a quarter turn every week so that the flower does not lean towards the light source and remains symmetrical.

Soil for growing

Nutritious soil, rich in organic matter and with good drainage. Well-rotted manure, peat and leaf humus are added to the mixture. Coarse river sand is mixed in to improve drainage. 

Feeding 

The plant requires monthly fertilization with liquid fertilizers with a high phosphorus content and low nitrogen content. Fertilizers are diluted to half the recommended dose. 

Air humidity

Spraying the leaves should only be done when the summer heat sets in; the rest of the time, eucomis easily tolerates the normal atmosphere of a living space.

Watering

Water generously during the period of active growth, the soil should be dried by 1 - 3 cm between waterings or kept moist all the time. Drain excess moisture from the tray immediately after it appears. Reduce the frequency of watering during the dormant period, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. 

Transplantation

In March, plant the bulbs in fresh soil using a deep pot, covering with a layer of soil about 12 - 15 cm thick. Eucomis do not like frequent transplants and prefer slightly cramped conditions.

Pests and diseases

With overwatering and insufficient drainage, the leaves turn yellow. The plant can be attacked by insects such as spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies.