Eucomis comosa Pink Gin - Pineapple flower

Eucomis 'Pink Gin' is a variety of pineapple lily that stands out with its beautiful pink flowering in late summer, which is absolutely stunning under the low September light. This South African bulbous plant is easy to grow in the ground in mild regions. It is also perfect for pots on a patio or balcony. Inflorescences filled with purple floral buds and then small pink flowers emerge from a rosette of large leaves. They are topped with a tuft of leaves and are followed by decorative seeds.

Eucomis 'Pink Gin' belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is a horticultural selection derived from E. comosa, native to southern Africa. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with deciduous foliage in winter, developing from a large swollen bulb. Within 4 to 5 years, it forms a clump that reaches 1.2m (4ft) in height when flowering, and occupies about 60cm (24in) in width on the ground. In spring, its vibrant green foliage emerges in a voluminous rosette of shiny leaves. Initially small in size, they grow and expand until flowering. They are thick, long, and linear, arranged in a crown around a central axis. In August-September, it reveals a floral stem covered with purple floral buds that open into pink stars, from bottom to top. The floral spike is topped with a small bouquet of leaves, similar to the one found at the top of a pineapple. The flowering is followed by the formation of decorative pods. This plant produces bulblets around the mother bulb, which helps the clump to slowly expand over time. Its vegetation disappears in winter.

Plant Eucomis 'Pink Gin' in a rockery or in a well-drained bed, alongside kniphofias, agapanthus, libertias, and Gladiolus callianthus, for example. On its own, it creates superb borders near pathways. Hardy down to -8°C (17.6°F), Eucomis 'Pink Gin' grows in full sun or partial shade in any well-drained, rich, and moist soil. It is also easy to grow in pots (which allows for overwintering), and its long-lasting flowers make beautiful exotic bouquets.