Eucomis (Pineapple Lilies)

Reminiscent of a pineapple fruit, Eucomis is a statuesque beauty that brings a touch of the exotic to the late summer and fall garden with its unusual spikes of open-faced starry flowers. At the tip of the spike sits a rosette of young green leaves similar to those of a pineapple, hence the common name of Pineapple Lily. Rich in nectar, the flowers last for 6 to 8 weeks for the great pleasure of the pollinators. The foliage is equally attractive with long, thick, straplike leaves that can be very eye-catching on the varieties with purple leaves ('Sparkling Burgundy').

• Native to South Africa, Eucomis is winter hardy to zones 7 and requires sheltered areas with mulch coverage in the winter months in cooler areas. However, it is very suitable as a pot plant, which you can bring inside during winter when it has died down.
• Growing up to 10-24 in. (25-60 cm), Eucomis is deer resistant, pest free, and ridiculously easy to grow.
• Eucomis is a great border plant where it provides vertical dimension and interest with its strange appearance and unique, restful flower color. It can be treated as a tub plant. One condition, however, is that the pot should be large enough and especially deep enough. Ordinary potting soil works perfectly for this purpose. Make sure the pot has effective drainage holes, preferably both in the bottom and low on the sides of the pot. A layer of clay granules in the bottom of the pot is ideal.