Ananas comosus 'Amigo' - Pineapple Plant

It may just be ornamental, but it still seems mad that you could have a tiny pineapple growing in your house, right? And yet, that's what you get with this plant, whose explosion of foliage opens beneath the tiny fruit growing on a sturdy central stem. And yes, that is how they grow edible pineapples too - they're just even bigger! While you may not be able to eat this fruit, you can still enjoy it in your home as more of a feast for the eyes. Think tropical rainforest when caring for this plant indoors, giving it bright light without too much direct sun, and high humidity.

Scientific Name
Ananas comosus 'Amigo' (leafty pineapple, cultivar: friend)

Common Name
Pineapple Plant, Ornamental Pineapple, Dwarf Pineapple, Miniature Pineapple

Origin
Native to South America, especially northern Brazil

Light
Like its native tropical rainforest, this plant likes its light bright, but will also prefer it indirect, as too much sun can scorch its leaves.

Water
Water when the top layer of soil dries out; this plant won't thank you if you give it too much love and drown it.

Humidity
This plant likes a high-humidity environment like its native rainforests, so make sure it is not too close to a radiator or in a really dry room.

Soil
Use a mix that drains well whilst retaining moisture. One with added coir, perlite and bark, such as a mix designed for anthuriums, will work well here. Repot every few years as the plant grows ir as its pups get big enough to have their own pots.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Temperature should ideally be between 16-30°C- make sure it doesn't drop below 8°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
This plant is a bromeliad and after its fruit has fallen off, the plant will start to die back. However, if it's happy, it will produce pups which can be potted into their own pots once they're big enough - about a half to two-thirds the size of the main plant.