Pineapple lily (Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy')
Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy' is a unique bulb offering dark foliage and a pineapple-like flower structure. Hardy in Zones 6-9.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Pineapple lily, specifically the dramatic Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’, provides exceptional ornamental value with its distinctive structure and deep coloration. Originating from South Africa, this bulbous plant commands attention when its flower spike emerges, topped by a tuft of bracts resembling the crown of a pineapple. Gardeners value Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ for its architectural form and the deep, rich hues that contrast beautifully against typical summer greens.
This plant thrives when given adequate moisture and rich soil, flourishing best under full sun exposure ensures the deepest foliage color and most prolific blooming. While native to warmer climates, its adaptability allows it to be successfully cultivated across USDA Zones 6 through 9, provided winter protection strategies are employed outside of warmer areas.
From mid-summer through late summer, the Pineapple lily delivers a long-lasting display of tiny, starry flowers tinged with purple. Whether used as a focal point in containers or placed strategically within a summer border, Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ offers a unique texture rarely found among hardy bulbs, making it a must-grow for the exotic garden enthusiast.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Asparagaceae
- Plant Type: Bulb
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-2 ft
- Spread: 1.5-2 ft
- Bloom Time: July to August
- Bloom Description: Whitish purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ bulbs should occur in the spring. Ensure the location offers consistently moist, organically rich, and well-drained soil. While they tolerate partial shade, achieving the best purple foliage color and flower performance requires placement in full sun. When setting the bulb in the ground, plant it approximately 4 to 5 inches deep, especially in cooler zones, to maximize winter insulation.
Watering should remain consistent; the Pineapple lily enjoys medium water needs and should not be allowed to dry out completely, particularly during the heat of summer blooming. Fertilization is generally minimal if the soil is rich, but a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer applied in early summer can support robust stalk development. Pruning is generally limited to removing spent flower stalks once the persistent purplish seeds have matured and you are ready to tidy the plant for winter dormancy.
Winter care is critical outside of the warmest zones. In areas subject to freezes (below Zone 9), the bulbs are not reliably hardy in the ground. Gardeners should either grow the plant in pots, moving the entire container to a cool, dry location indoors for winter, or lift the bulbs after the foliage dies back. If lifting, clean the bulbs, cure them briefly, and store them cool (but not freezing) in a dry medium like peat moss until spring planting.
Landscape Uses
The dramatic vertical accent provided by the Pineapple lily makes it ideal for specific placement within the landscape design. Its rich, dark foliage and unique flower form lend themselves perfectly to modern or tropical-themed container arrangements where they can be the undisputed centerpiece. These plants also work exceptionally well in protected locations, such as nestled against a foundation wall where they benefit from reflected heat.
Consider using Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ in mixed borders where their mid-to-late summer bloom can bridge the gap between early summer perennials and fall bloomers. They pair well with silvery foliage plants or companions that thrive in similar moist, rich conditions, such as hostas in partial shade situations or ornamental grasses in full sun. Their height, reaching 1 to 2 feet, allows them to be visible without overwhelmingly smaller surrounding plants.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Eucomis comosa, commonly called pineapple lily, is native to South Africa. It features a basal rosette of strap-shaped, linear, wavy-edged, purple-spotted, dark green leaves which spread upward and outward to 24”. From each rosette, a thick, purple-spotted flower stalk rises to 24” tall in mid to late summer bearing masses of tiny, starry, greenish-white flowers typically tinged with purple. The overall flower effect is reminiscent of a pineapple fruit, hence the common name, with the cultivar ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ featuring a distinctive tuft of bracts blushed with burgundy.
Tolerances
Potential Problems
The primary concern when growing Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ is its winter hardiness. While generally free from serious insect or disease issues, failing to protect the bulbs in marginal zones (like St. Louis, Zone 6) will result in bulb failure over winter. For in-ground planting in borderline areas, planting deeper (4-5 inches) and providing a thick layer of protective mulch after a hard frost can sometimes promote survival. For container cultivation, proactive lifting and dry overwintering ensures the longevity of your Pineapple lily collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Pineapple lily suitable for?
The required hardiness zones for Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ range from USDA Zone 6 through USDA Zone 9.
How large does Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ grow?
This bulb typically reaches a height between 1 and 2 feet, with a spread generally spanning 1.5 to 2 feet at maturity.
What sun exposure does Pineapple lily need?
For optimal foliage color and best flowering, Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ requires full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some afternoon shade.
When does Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ bloom?
This plant blooms from July to August, showcasing its unique inflorescence which features whitish purple flowers.
Conclusion
The unique tropical form and striking dark foliage ensure that Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ remains a treasured feature in specialty gardens and containers. Its medium-maintenance needs are offset by its spectacular mid-summer display, making the Pineapple lily a worthwhile investment for gardeners seeking architectural interest. Before planting, always confirm that your local USDA zone supports its survival or budget time for annual bulb lifting or container overwintering.
Companion Planting
Selecting appropriate companions for Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ should focus on plants that share similar cultural needs regarding moisture and soil richness, while providing contrasting texture or leaf shape. Since the Pineapple lily grows relatively upright, pairing it with low-mounding, spreading groundcovers can help soften the edges of the planting bed and suppress weeds around the base of the bulb. Plants that prefer moist, well-drained conditions—such as certain ornamental grasses, Canna lilies (in containers), or moisture-loving salvias—will thrive alongside the bulb.
When using Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ in a mixed border, consider the height of its neighbors. Placing shorter structural elements in front will allow the 1-2 foot height of the Pineapple lily to fully express itself, ensuring that the dramatic flower spike is not obscured. Avoid planting delicate, shallow-rooted perennials directly beside it, as the Pineapple lily requires consistent moisture that might outcompete less vigorous neighbors.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring marks the beginning of the active season for Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’. Plant bulbs once the danger of hard frost has passed, ensuring tips are near the soil surface (especially for container planting). After the initial planting, maintain medium water levels as growth begins. Early summer is the ideal time for any supplementary feeding if your soil is not naturally rich, encouraging strong stem development ahead of blooming.
As July and August arrive, the plant enters its peak ornamental period. Monitor soil moisture closely during dry spells, as consistent water is key to developing large flower heads. In autumn, once flowers fade and persistent purplish seeds set, you can begin preparing for dormancy. If you are in zones 6-8, cease watering heavily and plan for bulb lifting or mulch application to protect the underground storage organs before the first hard freeze hits.
