Ananas bracteatus
Ananas bracteatus
Red pineapple
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Taxonomy
Family Bromeliaceae · Genus Ananas
Common Names
Red pineapplePink pineapple
Context
nativeRegion
Native to South America, especially Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina.
usdaZones
USDA zones 10-12 outdoors; commonly grown as a container or indoor plant elsewhere.
companionPlants
Other bromeliads, Tillandsia (air plants), Ornamental grasses, Tropical understory plants
culturalUses
Grown for ornamental foliage and showy fruit; some cultivars used in landscaping. Edible fruit, but less commonly consumed than Ananas comosus.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to full sun; tolerates some direct sunlight but avoid harsh afternoon sun indoors.
WateringWater moderately; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. More drought-tolerant than many houseplants. Avoid waterlogging.
SoilWell-draining, sandy or loamy soil; bromeliad or cactus mixes work well.
FertilizerFeed with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; mist leaves occasionally in dry indoor environments.
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 18-28°C (65-82°F); protect from frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen perennial with a rosette of spiny, arching leaves—often with striking variegation.
Mature SizeTypically grows 50-100 cm (20-40 inches) tall and wide, including the inflorescence.
Growth RateModerate, slightly slower when grown indoors or in containers.
BloomingProduces a central pink to red bracted inflorescence, followed by an edible fruit. Flowering usually after several years of maturity.
DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler temperatures or lower light.
Propagation
MethodsOffsets (pups), Seed, Crown cuttings (from the fruit)
DifficultyEasy to moderate—offsets (pups) are the simplest method.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for offsets; seeds can be started indoors year-round with warmth.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove dead or damaged leaves as needed. Prune spent inflorescences once the fruit is removed or matures.
RepottingRepot every 1-3 years or when overcrowded, preferably in spring.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant, but may encounter scale, spider mites, or mealybugs; root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets. Handle with care due to spiny leaves.
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