Variegated Pineapple
Ananas comosus var. variegatus, commonly known as Variegated Pineapple, is a striking tropical herbaceous perennial grown for its colorful foliage and ornamental fruit. Native to tropical regions of South America, it is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates and valued as a decorative houseplant or patio specimen. With its dramatic green-and-white striped leaves and bold form, this variety is an eye-catching addition to indoor and outdoor gardens.
The Variegated Pineapple belongs to the bromeliad family (Bromeliaceae), which includes over 3,700 species in about 80 genera. Popular relatives include Aechmea, Guzmania, Tillandsia, Vriesea, and Neoregelia.
Pineapple originates from the Paraná–Paraguay River basin, primarily in southern Brazil and northern Paraguay, where indigenous peoples first domesticated it. It later spread northward across tropical South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Today, Pineapple is widely grown throughout the tropics, including Southeast Asia, the Philippines, the Caribbean, tropical Africa, and parts of the southern United States.
Variegated Pineapple is a slow-growing, clump-forming, herbaceous perennial with a dense, upright rosette of striped sword-shaped leaves. Like other pineapples, it produces one fruit per life cycle and then gradually declines, producing offsets (suckers, slips, and ratoons) that ensure continued growth.
This variegated pineapple plant typically grows 2 to 3 feet (60–90 cm) tall and 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm) wide, slightly smaller than standard pineapple plants, making it well-suited for container culture.
Variegated Pineapple is a perennial plant that produces a single fruit and then declines. However, it readily produces pups for continued propagation.
The plant produces a central flower spike with up to 200 small, tubular flowers in lavender to reddish-purple hues. These bloom over several weeks and develop into a syncarp fruit. Pollination is often discouraged to prevent seed development.
Although smaller than commercial varieties, the fruit is a true pineapple—edible and ornamental. It is a seedless syncarp formed by the fusion of multiple flowers, topped by a small variegated crown. The skin turns golden-yellow when ripe. It is sweet but often grown for looks rather than harvest.
The standout feature of this variegated pineapple is its evergreen rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves boldly striped in creamy white and green. Margins may be smooth or spiny depending on maturity. The foliage grows up to 3 feet (90 cm) long and adds dramatic contrast in garden beds or interiors.
Best grown in USDA zones 10–12, Variegated Pineapple thrives in warm, humid conditions. Ideal temperatures range from 68–86°F (20–30°C). Growth slows significantly below 60°F (15.5°C) and may be affected above 90°F (32°C). The plant is highly sensitive to frost—tissue damage can occur below 32°F (0°C), and it may not survive temperatures under 28°F (-2°C). In cooler regions, it should be grown in containers and brought indoors when temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C).
The Variegated Pineapple is prized as an ornamental plant for its striking evergreen foliage, unique flowers, and vibrant fruit. Its bold, architectural form and tropical flair make it a top choice among tropical flowers.
Provides shelter for small animals and may attract fruit-loving wildlife when grown outdoors.
Pineapple is moderately drought-tolerant due to its CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) photosynthesis. However, regular watering promotes better growth and fruiting.
The sharp, spiny foliage deters browsing animals, making this variegated pineapple deer– and rabbit-resistant.
Variegated Pineapple is not invasive. It spreads slowly through offsets.
Pineapple plants are surprisingly easy to grow at home, whether in tropical gardens or as striking container houseplants. With the right conditions and patience, you can even enjoy your own homegrown fruit.
Bright Light: Pineapple plants need at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. While they can tolerate some direct sun, too much may cause the leaf tips to scorch, especially indoors.
Artificial Lighting: If natural sunlight is limited, supplement with LED or high-intensity grow lights to ensure healthy growth and encourage fruiting.
Well-Drained Soil: Pineapples grow best in slightly acidic, fast-draining soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5. For container-grown plants, a blend of orchid bark and peat-free compost works well.
Outdoor Soil: In tropical climates, sandy loam enriched with organic matter provides an ideal growing medium.
Infrequent Watering: Water deeply but let the soil dry out between waterings. Consistently wet conditions can lead to root rot.
Drought Tolerance: Once established, pineapple plants handle dry conditions fairly well but appreciate occasional watering during periods of active growth.
Temperature Range: Pineapples prefer warm conditions between 68°F and 86°F (20°C and 30°C). They are not frost-hardy and should be brought indoors or protected when temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C).
Humidity: These plants adapt to a wide range of humidity levels but perform best in moderately humid environments.
Fertilizer Type: Outdoors, feed pineapple plants every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Indoors, fertilize monthly during spring and summer using a diluted liquid fertilizer. After the first year, reduce feeding to once every 2–3 months as growth slows.
Organic Options: Pineapples are heavy feeders and benefit from organic fertilizers rich in nutrients, especially those containing iron to prevent leaf chlorosis and deficiency symptoms.
Container Size: Choose a container with excellent drainage. A 5-gallon pot is ideal for mature plants grown indoors.
Repotting: Refresh the soil or repot into a slightly larger container when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its space.
Prune Dead Leaves: Remove any dry or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and promote airflow around the base.
Offset Propagation: After producing fruit, the main plant naturally declines. However, it produces side shoots (suckers and slips) that can be removed and planted to grow new pineapples.
Pineapple plants are easy to propagate from the crown of the fruit, as well as from suckers and slips. These vegetative methods produce genetically identical plants and are commonly used both by gardeners and commercial growers.
Suckers, also known as pups, grow between the leaves of mature pineapple plants. These are ideal for propagation because they mature faster than crowns.
Slips are small shoots that grow at the base of the fruit. They can also be used for propagation and usually root quickly.
With warmth, light, and patience, your propagated pineapple plant can eventually produce its own delicious fruit in 2–3 years.
Harvesting pineapples at the right time ensures the best flavor and sweetness. Unlike many fruits, pineapples do not continue to ripen significantly after being picked, so timing is key.
With proper care, a single pineapple plant can produce additional fruit from its suckers or slips in the following seasons.
Pineapple plants can take 2 to 3 years or more to flower naturally, especially when grown indoors. If the plant is mature and healthy but not flowering, you can encourage blooming using a simple ethylene-releasing method.
Forcing flowering does not harm the plant if done properly. Once the pineapple blooms, it takes several months for the fruit to mature and ripen.
Yes, dogs can eat pineapple in moderation. Fresh pineapple is a healthy treat that contains vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Avoid feeding canned pineapple or any pineapple with added sugar. Always remove the skin and core, and serve in small, bite-sized pieces.
Yes, cats can eat small amounts of fresh pineapple occasionally. It is non-toxic to cats, but some felines may not tolerate the fruit well due to its acidity or high sugar content. Always remove the skin and core, and avoid serving canned or sweetened pineapple.
To cut a pineapple, slice off the top (crown) and bottom. Stand the fruit upright and cut away the skin in vertical strips. Remove any remaining “eyes” with a paring knife. Slice the fruit into rings, chunks, or spears, and discard the tough core or save it for smoothies or infusions.
Yes, pineapple is rich in vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, and digestive enzymes like bromelain. It supports immune function, aids digestion, and promotes healthy skin. Consuming it fresh and in moderation provides health benefits as part of a balanced diet.
A ripe pineapple has a sweet, fragrant aroma at the base, golden-yellow skin, and yields slightly to gentle pressure. The leaves in the crown may also pull out easily. Avoid fruits with soft spots, mold, or fermented smells.
Pineapple is low in calories and high in nutrients. One cup (165g) of fresh pineapple contains about 82 calories, 2.3g fiber, 79mg vitamin C (88% DV), and 1mg manganese (76% DV). It also provides small amounts of vitamin B6, copper, and folate.
Choose a pineapple with golden skin, a sweet smell at the base, and firm but slightly yielding flesh. Avoid fruits that are mostly green, overly soft, or have signs of mold. A heavy pineapple typically indicates juiciness.
Hardiness |
10 - 12 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 24, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Houseplants, Fruits, Perennials |
Plant Family | Bromeliaceae |
Common names | Ananas, Pineapple |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 72" (90cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Average |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries |
Tolerance | Drought |
Garden Uses | Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden |
Hardiness |
10 - 12 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 24, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Houseplants, Fruits, Perennials |
Plant Family | Bromeliaceae |
Common names | Ananas, Pineapple |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 72" (90cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Average |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries |
Tolerance | Drought |
Garden Uses | Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden |
How many Ananas comosus var. variegatus (Variegated Pineapple) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Ananas comosus var. variegatus (Variegated Pineapple) | N/A | Buy Plants |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!