Ananas comosus
Ananas comosus
Pineapple
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Taxonomy
Family Bromeliaceae · Genus Ananas
Common Names
Pineapple
Context
nativeRegion
South America (primarily Brazil, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina).
usdaZones
10–12 (grown as a houseplant or annual outside these zones).
companionPlants
Banana (Musa spp.), Papaya (Carica papaya), Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas)
culturalUses
Major commercial and traditional fruit crop; eaten fresh, juiced, and used in culinary dishes. Cultural significance in indigenous South American societies.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect sunlight or full sun; prefers at least 6 hours of light per day.
WateringWater deeply but infrequently; allow the soil to mostly dry out between watering. Avoid waterlogging.
SoilWell-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (4.5–6.5).
FertilizerFertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced or bromeliad-specific fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (50%+), but tolerant of average indoor humidity.
TemperatureWarm temperatures (18–30°C / 65–86°F). Sensitive to frost; keep above 15°C (59°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitRosette-forming perennial herb with a central fruiting stalk.
Mature Size30–100 cm tall (1–3 ft), up to 1 m wide (3 ft).
Growth RateModerate; typically 18–24 months from planting to fruit in optimal conditions.
BloomingFlowers develop once per plant cycle before fruit formation; small, purple to red inflorescence.
DormancyDoes not have a pronounced dormancy; slows growth in cool conditions.
Propagation
MethodsOffsets (slips, pups), Crown cuttings from harvested fruit, Seed
DifficultyEasy to moderate; offsets and crowns root readily.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for best results when propagating.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove dead or dry leaves and any offsets as required.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when outgrowing the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, fungal root rot, and heart rot if overwatered.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets; fruit is edible.
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