Eucomis bicolor aka Pineapple Lily

Eucomis bicolor is a bulbous perennial from South Africa and Lesotho. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Gardeners know it as pineapple lily or king's flower. The pineapple name refers to its leaf-topped flower heads. This long-lived plant grows upright and forms clumps over time. Small bulbs, called offsets, develop beside the parent bulb.

Garden plants reach about 1–2 feet (0.3–0.6 metres) tall. Their spread reaches about 1.6–2 feet (0.5–0.6 metres). RHS gives a smaller upper size of 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). Plants take two to five years to reach full size. Broad, fleshy green leaves form a rosette at ground level. Each leaf has a strap-like shape and a wavy edge. Some leaves have purple marks on their lower sides. The foliage dies back rather than staying green year-round. Green flower stems carry maroon or purple spots.

Flowers appear in summer on stout, upright stems. Small, star-shaped blooms crowd together in a cylindrical raceme. Flowers open from the base toward the top. RHS describes pale green blooms with maroon edges. NC State describes cream-white blooms with purple streaks. A crown of green bracts tops each flower head. The plant produces purple seeds, according to NC State. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The stems also provide flowers for cutting.

Grow this bulb in full sun and a sheltered spot. NC State also allows partial shade. It needs fertile soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but allow water to drain freely. RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions all suit it. Plant bulbs about 0.5 feet (0.15 metres) deep in spring. Mulch helps hold moisture and protects bulbs in winter. RHS rates it H4; NC State lists USDA zones 7–10. It is only marginally hardy in zone 7. In zones 6 and colder, store bulbs somewhere cool and dry.

Use pineapple lily in beds, borders, pots, and courtyard gardens. Its bold leaves and flower heads make a strong accent. It also fits cottage gardens and gardens for pollinating insects. NC State lists resistance to deer and rabbits. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Watch for slugs, snails, and aphids. No pruning is needed. Divide clumps or remove offsets in spring to raise more plants. Seeds can be sown in spring or autumn.