Eucomis (genus, pineapple lilies)

Japanese name: パイナップルリリー
Scientific name: Eucomis

[Overview]
A bulbous perennial.
It has a layered bulb about 10 cm across.
The leaves are simple, arise in large numbers from the base, and are lanceolate to broadly strap-shaped; many have finely wavy margins.
A thick, cylindrical flower stalk rises from the center of the leaves, and the flowers are densely set in a raceme.
A bundle of leaf-like bracts is borne at the tip of the inflorescence.
The flowers are star-shaped, open, with 6 petals; there are 6 stamens and the stigma of the pistil is spherical.
The fruit is a capsule.

[Cultivation]
Propagate from seed or by dividing bulbs.
From seed, it takes 3–4 years to flower.
Except in cold regions, it can overwinter outdoors with only frost protection, and it can be left planted for 2–3 years.
It prefers fertile soil in a sunny, well-drained, well-ventilated site.
During the growing period, water thoroughly when the soil surface dries; when the leaves begin to turn yellow in autumn, gradually reduce watering, and stop watering during dormancy.
Apply a base fertilizer, and also place slow-release fertilizer on the soil in spring and after flowering.
If you are not collecting seed, cut the flower stalk at the base after flowering so that the plant does not become exhausted.
In cold regions where freezing is a concern, the bulbs may be dug up; dig them up when the leaves begin to wither and store them dry in a place where they will not freeze.
There are no particular pests or diseases.

[Notes]
The name comes from the appearance of the inflorescence.

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