Eucomis African Night

Pineapple Lily

Note: This is an archive page preserved for informational use.
Cultural and Growing Info is provided below.


A tropical look with tall spikes of dusky-plum buds opening from bottom to top into starry pink florets.

Achieve a tropical look even in zone 6 gardens! A substantial specimen, long foliage blades emerge deep burgundy in spring then lighten to emerald green. Tall spikes of dusky-plum buds open bottom to top to reveal starry rosy-pink florets. Each spike is crowned with a whimsical topknot of smaller leaves. Late to wake in the spring, but so worth the wait!

Eucomis are native to South Africa and their preference for sharply drained soil makes them ideal for rock gardens. The common name of Pineapple Lily is in reference to the spiky leaves perched at the tips of the flowers that resemble the tropical fruit. After the flowers fade, attractive seed capsules replace the floret petals to extend interest. Eucomis African Night is a valuable later season pollinator attractor.

Code EUAN

Patent PP31,155

Plant Type Perennials

Species

Height Medium 2 1/2-3'

Spacing Plant 3 1/2-4' apart

Bloom Time Late Summer to Early Fall

Sun / Shade Full Sun to Half Sun / Half Shade

Zones 6-9

Soil Type Normal, Sandy

Water Needs Medium

Sold In Plantable Pots (3.5x3.5x4")

Special Features

  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Good for Cut Flowers
  • OK in Containers

Eucomis General Information

Eucomis are summer-blooming bulbs with unusual, exotic flowers that form columnar spikes. Late to emerge in the spring, long strappy leaves and stems may be freckled with purple. Idaho has restricted all potted plant material from being shipped into Idaho at this time.

Eucomis Plant Care

Prefers warm, sunny nooks with well-drained soil and protection from excessive winter cold and moisture. Grow in loose, well-drained soil. Heavy clay or soggy soil may cause the bulb to rot. At the start of growing season, keep soil barely moist. Once several leaves have emerged, water consistently keeping soil relatively moist until flowers fade. In northern zones, grow in full sun. Where sun is more intense, plants will benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day. Fertilize in early spring. Wait until leaves and flower stems begin to yellow before removing.

Plantable Pots

Our plants are grown in 3.5x3.5x4” plantable pots. Made from 100% biodegradable coconut husk fibers (coir), these pots have tremendous advantages over plastic pots. With better air exchange, this "breathable" pot fosters robust root growth and reduces transplant shock since you can plant the pots directly in the ground. The pot naturally becomes part of the soil on its own over time—no composting required—and since they're made from a renewable resource that requires very little energy, they're earth-friendly too!

100% Guarantee

We offer a 100% unconditional guarantee for all our perennials to reach you in good condition and to grow. If you're not satisfied, we'll reship or refund immediately. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns—we share your passion for gardening and want your new plants to thrive in your border!

Shipping Details

We use custom, earth-friendly packaging to make sure your order arrives in great condition, and we ship based on the best planting time for your growing zone (see the approximate dates below), unless otherwise indicated at checkout. If you wish, you can indicate a specific ship date during checkout.

Spring

  • Zone 3, 4: Early to Mid May
  • Zone 5: Late April to Early May
  • Zone 6: Mid to Late April
  • Zone 7: Early to Mid April
  • Zone 8: Late March to Early April
  • Zone 9, 10: Late March

Fall

  • Zone 2, 3, 4: Early September
  • Zone 5: Early to Mid September
  • Zone 6: Mid September
  • Zone 7: Mid to Late September
  • Zone 8, 9, 10: Late September to Early October