🍍 A Tropical Gem

The foliage of the Pineapple Plant is one of its most recognizable features. The leaves are stiff, sword-shaped, and grow in a dense, outward-spreading rosette. They are typically a vibrant green color, and importantly, they are notably spiky along the margins, adding a textural, defensive quality. The plant is evergreen, maintaining its bold look all year.

The true spectacle is the fruiting period. This specific plant is a fully developed miniature pineapple growing right from the centre of the rosette. The fruit itself is a combination of green, yellow, and sometimes reddish-brown hues, sitting atop the foliage.

• Flowering/Fruiting Period: As a houseplant, it usually comes with a decorative fruit already developing or formed. The tiny, tubular flowers that precede the fruit are often blue or red/purple and appear as the central spike develops, but they are rarely the main feature. The decorative fruit can remain attractive on the plant for several months. The flowers are not fragrant.

• Height: The specimen you have is quite compact at about 30 cm (around 12 inches) tall, making it an ideal size for a tabletop. Fully grown indoor plants usually range from 2 to 3 feet (60–90 cm) in height.

• Spines: Yes, the leaves have notable spiky edges that should be handled with care.

☀️ Care and Growth

The Pineapple Plant, native to tropical regions of South America like Brazil and Paraguay, is surprisingly adaptable to indoor environments.

• Light: It thrives best in a position that receives a balance of sun and shade, often referred to as half-shadow or bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it near a window where it can receive good light is essential, but protect it from the harshest direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.

• Watering: This plant requires regular watering to keep the well-draining soil moist, but never waterlogged or soggy. Watering once every 8 to 10 days is a good guideline, but always check the soil moisture first.

• Fertilizer: During the growing season, a balanced fertilizer is recommended every 2–3 months. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant.

Note: The skin and core of the fruit, as well as the leaves of the Pineapple plant, contain enzymes that can cause mild irritation if ingested or handled excessively.