Common Name |
Pineapple Lily |
Genus |
Eucomis |
Species |
Eucomis comosa ‘Oakhurst’ |
Family |
Asparagaceae |
Life Cycle |
Tender perennial clump-forming bulb |
Format
|
36-cell plug tray |
Plug Care |
Transplant plugs promptly after receipt. Plant bulbs with neck just above soil surface in well-drained media. Keep the soil level the same as it was while in the plug trays - don't plant any deeper. Maintain moderate moisture; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot during establishment. |
Netting / Staking |
Not necessary; plants are self-supporting with sturdy flower stalks. |
Temperature Range |
Can be grown in USDA Zones 5-10; as long as the bulb doesn't freeze though, it should overwinter. In zones 7 and colder, mulch in the fall to avoid freezing. |
Spacing |
18" to allow for mature size. Can be dug/divided and spaced out in two or three years, or as needed. |
Soil Preference |
Course, well draining, moderately organically rich soil. |
Day Length |
Full sun to part shade; brighter light promotes better flowering and more compact growth. |
Pinching |
Do not pinch. |
When to Plant |
Plant plugs in spring after danger of frost has passed. Young plants prefer warm soil to initiate active growth. |
Harvesting |
Expect flowers in July and August. Cut stems above the rosette of leaves when the bottom 1/3 of the florets are open, and place cut stems directly into a bucket of cool, clean water. |
Post Harvest Care |
Store in a cooler, away from ethylene gas. Cut stems can last up to 3 weeks in a vase. |
Diseases / Insects |
Monitor for bulb rot caused by overwatering, and fungal leaf spots due to lack of airflow around plants. Watch for typical plant pests such as aphids, spider mites, leaf miners, mealy bugs or bulb scales and spray if present. |
Bailey's Notes |
‘Oakhurst’ is a standout for tropical inspired bouquets, producing striking pineapple-like flower heads on sturdy stems above long burgundy leaves. Originally found in a San Diego Nursery, this deep-purple leafed novelty has loved the blazing sun there for nearly 20 years. It has a tropical look and combines well in mixed containers. Also, it lasts an amazing 21 days as a cut flower!
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Resources |
Growing Information |