Ananas comosus aka Pineapple
Taxonomy
The pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a common tropical plant that was once only grown in South and Central America (mainly Brazil). It is now cultivated worldwide, and can be found in greenhouses and tropical plantations. Pineapples are an economically significant fruit, grown in many cultures as a symbol of luxury since the 17th century. The pineapples grow as small shrubs, normally around 2-4' tall, with thick and spiky leaves that grow in a rosette. The individual flowers of the unpollinated plant fuse to form a multiple fruit, usually maturing in around a year. The average weight of a ripe pineapple can range from 2 to 8 pounds (1 to 3 kg). Pineapples are the third most cultivated tropical fruit, along with bananas and citrus, and can also be used to make tepache in its native Mexico.
Common names
Pineapple, Ananas, Nanas (Malay), Phaeneapole, Stot'emenoHow to care for Pineapple
Difficulty
Pineapple requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Pineapple does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
Pineapple loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Pineapple prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Pineapple to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Pineapple is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
Pineapple thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.
Fertilizer
The growth of Pineapple is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Pineapple’s native range is South America.
Flower
If you provide your Pineapple with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Ananas Genus
