Pineapple

Pineapple is a tropical, evergreen bromeliad grown for its edible fruit and sculptural rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves. Use it as a warm-climate accent in a sunny, low-traffic spot or grow it in a container that can be protected from cold; the sharp leaf margins need room away from paths and play areas. ## Form and season Mature plants commonly reach about 3–4 ft tall and wide, though dimensions vary with cultivar and growing conditions. Lavender to reddish-purple flowers form on a central spike in summer and fuse into the familiar aggregate fruit. The evergreen gray-green foliage gives the plant a bold, coarse texture; after fruiting, the main rosette gradually declines while producing offsets that can be replanted. ## Siting Give pineapple full sun for fruit production and a warm, sheltered position with freely draining, moderately fertile sandy loam. [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP039) notes that the species tolerates a range of soil types but needs good drainage; [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ananas-comosus/) recommends drying soil between waterings and keeping plants warm because they are not frost-tolerant. UF/IFAS lists USDA Zones 10A–11B, while NC State lists 10A–12B, so hardiness varies with growing conditions and source region. ## Maintenance Water during dry periods, but avoid prolonged wet soil that can cause root problems. Protect containers before frost and keep the spiny leaves away from frequent traffic. After harvest, retain a healthy sucker or pup to establish a replacement plant; remove other offsets only when space or fruit size is a concern. Use gloves when handling sharp leaves, and note that pineapple sap and fruit may irritate sensitive people.