Eucomis

Native to Southern Africa, usually in the summer rainfall areas these are the so-called Pineapple Lily, in allusion to the tuft of greenery borne atop a cylindrical flower spike. There are several species, all of the same general form and appearance. Some miniature, some with superbly marked leaves, others with huge flower spikes, some fragrant, some smelly.

All are happy in a well-drained, loam-based soil in full sun and many are far hardier than they have been given credit for in the past. This hardiness is no doubt aided by their later appearance, which in some cases can be as late as June. Slightly deeper than normal planting for a bulb of their size, will also aid later emergence and this minimise the chance of frost damage. After their appearance above ground, they will appreciate plenty of water and feeding will help to build good size.

Flowering is during summer and autumn and the species (varying from miniature to giant) flower in shades of white, pale yellow, pink and bronzed-purple.

Order from Winter-Spring list only.