Eucomis vandermerwei Octopus - Pineapple flower

Eucomis vandermerwei 'Octopus' is a curious bulbous plant with green foliage speckled with black dots. In early summer, it bears curious pineapple-like red-purple flowers tinged with chocolate.

Originally from South Africa, Eucomis vandermerwei grows in the mountainous region of the Drakensberg.

This small bulbous plant has dark green decorative foliage that is speckled with black dots. In early summer, it produces a pineapple-shaped floral stem, 20 to 25cm (8 to 10in) tall that bears deep purple flowers.

Hardy down to -10°C (14°F), 'Octopus' grows in full sun or partial shade in any well-drained, rich, and moist soil. The bulb is particularly sensitive to excessive water in winter, which is why it is important to provide it with drainage using sand or gravel in regions with humid winters. In case of doubt, it is wise to overwinter the bulb in a dry and frost-free room, or to cultivate it in a pot.

Plant 'Octopus' in a rock garden, or in a well-drained border, along with kniphofias, crocosmias, and Gladiolus callianthus.