Origin
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is an ornamental plant species that belong to the Hyacinthaceae family. It is commonly found in South Africa, particularly in Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
Common Names
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is commonly known as Giant Pineapple Lily or Pineapple Flower. It is also called in various African names such as Inguduza, Umathithibala, or Unqayi in different local tribal languages.
Uses
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is a popular ornamental plant that is grown as a garden specimen because of its distinctive pineapple-like flowers. The giant Pineapple lily is grown for horticultural purposes, and its bulbs and inflorescence are used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes by some African tribes. In particular, the Zulu people use crushed bulbs to treat muscular pain and rheumatism.
General Appearance
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is a beautiful bulbous perennial plant that grows up to 1.2 m tall. Its distinctive feature is a large inflorescence, which looks like a pineapple and consists of a dense cluster of small flowers arranged on a long stem. Each flower has a six-lobed star-shaped corolla that ranges from white to creamy pink, depending on the cultivar. Leaves are broad, strap-shaped, green, and glossy, growing in a rosette at the base of the stem. The bulb is large, white, and onion-like.
Light Requirements
The Eucomis pole-evansii plant is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright, direct light. Thus, it is best to position it in a place where it can get ample sunlight. Avoid placing it in a spot with too much shade or indirect light as this can lead to stunted growth and poor development.
Temperature Requirements
Eucomis pole-evansii prefer warmer temperatures but can tolerate cooler temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage the plant, while exposure to frost can cause severe damage or even death.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil. Eucomis pole-evansii requires a soil pH between 6.0 to 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, fertile, and well-aerated to support optimal growth and development. It is recommended to mix compost, perlite, or vermiculite to increase soil drainage and aeration.
Cultivation
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br., commonly known as Pineapple Lily, requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH in the range of 6.0-7.5 is optimal. Plant the bulbs around 6-8 inches deep in the soil, and ensure that they are spaced roughly 12-18 inches apart.
Grow the plant in a location where it receives partial shade to full sun, at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 but can be grown as an annual plant in colder zones.
Watering Needs
Pineapple Lily prefers moderate watering, and the soil should remain slightly moist. Overwatering may cause the bulbs to rot, and under-watering can hinder flowering. Water the plant deeply once a week, adjusting the frequency based on the climate and soil conditions.
One tip is to water the plant at the base instead of the foliage to prevent fungal diseases from occurring.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Pineapple Lily plant biweekly, during the active growing season with an all-purpose, balanced fertilizer. Alternatively, use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus since it boosts blooming.
Avoid fertilizing the dormant bulb, and decrease the feeding as winter approaches. Ensure to use the recommended amount of fertilizer, and never over-fertilize the plant since it can cause the foliage to burn.
Pruning
Remove faded or yellowing leaves and dead flowers from the plant during the growing season. Cut the flower stalks neatly at their base. Nevertheless, it is best to allow the foliage to wither naturally before cutting it off.
Avoid pruning the plant too severely since it can reduce its overall vigor and affect the blooms of the next season. Regular removal of spent flowers and yellowing leaves will promote a fuller, healthier, and more vibrant plant.
Propagation of Eucomis Pole-Evansii N.E.Br.
There are three main methods for propagating Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br., including vegetative propagation, seed propagation, and bulb division. Each propagation method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Vegetative Propagation
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. can be propagated through leaf cuttings or offsets. For leaf cuttings, the leaves are removed from mature plants and cut into small sections. These sections are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they develop roots and shoots. Offsets, on the other hand, are smaller bulbs that grow from the parent bulb. These can be removed and replanted in the same way as leaf cuttings.
Vegetative propagation is relatively fast and produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. However, this method requires more care and attention than other propagation methods, as the cuttings or offsets are more prone to disease and rot.
Seed Propagation
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds are typically sown in spring or early summer in a well-draining potting mix, covered lightly with soil, and kept moist until they germinate. Seed propagation is relatively easy and requires less maintenance than other propagation methods.
However, seed propagation produces plants that may not be genetically identical to the parent plant, which can result in some variability in growth and flower characteristics.
Bulb Division
Bulb division involves dividing the parent bulb into smaller sections, each with its own growing point. These sections are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they develop roots and shoots.
Bulb division is a quick and easy propagation method that produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. However, it can only be done once the plant has matured and developed a large enough bulb. Bulb division can also reduce the flower production of the parent plant.
Disease Management
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is generally a hardy plant species, but they are still susceptible to some diseases. The most common diseases that affect these plants include:
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria that cause the tissue of the plant to become slimy and eventually collapse. It is often caused by overwatering, and it is important to avoid this by providing well-drained soil. Removing affected areas and applying a copper-based fungicide can help manage this disease.
- Grey Mould: This fungal disease causes a grey-black fuzzy growth on the leaves and flowers, and it can lead to the death of the plant. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent this disease. If the disease does occur, removing affected areas and applying a copper-based fungicide can manage it.
- Root Rot: This disease occurs when the roots of the plant are constantly saturated in water. To prevent this, make sure the plant is planted in well-drained soil and that it is not overwatered. If the disease does occur, removing affected areas and improving drainage can help manage it.
Pest Management
Eucomis pole-evansii N.E.Br. is also susceptible to some pests. The most common pests that affect these plants include:
- Snails and Slugs: These pests often feed on the leaves, causing large holes in the foliage. To manage these pests, handpick them from the plant or use an iron phosphate-based bait.
- Thrips: These pests are tiny insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to turn silvery and distorted. Using a neem oil-based insecticide can help manage these pests.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like small cotton balls and often congregate on the undersides of plant leaves. They suck the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth. Wiping affected areas with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol can help manage this pest.
