Ananas ananassoides
Ananas ananassoides
Wild Pineapple
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Taxonomy
Family Bromeliaceae · Genus Ananas
Common Names
Wild PineappleDwarf Pineapple
Context
nativeRegion
Native to South American regions of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Venezuela, and Guyana.
usdaZones
10-12
companionPlants
Other terrestrial bromeliads, Orchids, Tillandsia
culturalUses
Edible fruits, though smaller and less commercially important than Ananas comosus (pineapple); grown ornamentally for its attractive foliage and unique fruit.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers bright, indirect sunlight but tolerates some direct sun.
WateringWater moderately, allowing the soil to mostly dry between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.
SoilWell-draining, sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter.
FertilizerApply a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity but can tolerate average indoor conditions.
TemperatureOptimal range is 20-30°C (68-86°F); sensitive to frost and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTerrestrial or occasionally epiphytic perennial herb with rosette growth and spiny leaves.
Mature SizeTypically 30-100 cm tall; flowering stalk can reach up to 1.5 m.
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingProduces a central flowering stalk with small purple or pink flowers, usually followed by a small pineapple-like fruit.
DormancyNot pronounced; growth slows in cooler conditions.
Propagation
MethodsOffsets/pups, seeds, crown cuttings
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent flower stalks and dead leaves as needed.
RepottingEvery 2-3 years or when rootbound.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, scale, and fungal rot in overly wet conditions.
ToxicityNontoxic to humans and pets.
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