Attractive small bulbs with long lasting flowers are hard to come by, Eucomis vandermerwei is one that has all of these attributes. Very easy to grow in a container and easy care as well.
This a reliable little plant that likes at least good morning sun, with some protection from very hot afternoon sun. You can grow it in the ground in the right climates, however it is mostly grown in containers.
Commonly called the Pineapple Lily, or Pineapple Flower, this is a fairly hardy plant but in colder zones with heavy frosts or freezes it is best overwintered indoors.
From South Africa through to Swaziland and Mozambique. They are winter dormant and grow naturally at elevations.
Maroon flowers and maroon spots on green leaves make it unique in the genus. It is a protected species in the wild and well worth growing,
Eucomis vandermerwei Care
Where to grow Eucomis vandermerwei
For a really natural look, grow this unique little plant in a rock garden or crevice garden. Containers or troughs are also suitable. Try some small topping stone or gravel around the plant for a great look
Best in full morning sun, perhaps with a little afternoon shade in warmer areas.
How to grow Eucomis vandermerwei
- Position
Good morning sun and light afternoon shade. - Soil
A well drained soil or potting mix is essential. Normal potting mix with around 40% extra drainage materials such as pumice, horticultural grit or coarse washed river sand works well.
A slightly acid soil is best. - Planting
Bulbs should be planted with the tip of the bulb just below soil level in a free draining soil or potting mix. - Watering
A dry winter is important as bulbs can rot in wet soils when dormant, commence watering at first signs of growth in spring.
Use a wet dry cycle, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. - Fertiliser
A little general purpose slow release fertiliser each spring should be sufficient. You can follow up applications of a liquid fish and seaweed fertiliser during active growth every 3 weeks.
Propagation.
You could try propagating from seeds, however they are hard to come by so division is the most common method. The best time to divide them is in late winter to early spring.
Only divide established clumps and leave clumps for 3 -4 years before dividing.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name- Eucomis vandermerwei
- Common Names – Octopus Eucomis
- Origin – South Africa
- Height – 15 cm (6 inches) with flower spike.
- Soil – Humus rich and well drained.
- Position – Full sun to a little afternoon shade.
- Moisture – Medium
- Fertiliser – Slow release in spring.
- Foliage – Green with chocolate red spots.
- Flower – Maroon
- Flowering time – Summer
- Propagation – Division
- Pruning – Remove old foliage after it dies back in winter.
- Frost tolerant – Yes once established
Eucomis vandermerwei is available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au