Florida Special Pineapple

Florida Special is an edible pineapple selected for Florida growing, with a tight evergreen rosette and a golden-yellow fruit. UF/IFAS identifies this cultivar as a Libby Fruit Company selection with better cold tolerance than many pineapples, though it remains a tropical plant that needs protection from freezes. ## Landscape Use and Appearance The stiff leaves form a bold, coarse-textured rosette that works as a container specimen, edible-landscape accent, or small grouped planting. Florida Special foliage and the fruit coating may carry reddish tones; the interior flesh is golden yellow. UF/IFAS gives the species a mature range of about 1–3 ft tall and 3–5 ft wide. ## Siting and Growing Conditions Choose a warm, bright position with well-drained soil; full sun supports the best growth and fruit production. Pineapple tolerates dry weather, but drought slows growth and fruiting, while waterlogged soil increases root-rot risk. Plants are commonly propagated from crowns, slips, or suckers, and fruit development can take many months. For Florida Special, UF/IFAS reports cold tolerance to the mid-30s °F; general pineapple guidance warns that freezing temperatures can injure plants. Grow it in a drained container where winter protection is needed. ## Maintenance Keep the leaf tips clear of narrow paths, protect outdoor plants from frost, and avoid persistently wet soil. Remove suckers only when you want to direct growth toward fruit size; retain them when you want planting material. [UF/IFAS cultivar and landscape profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP039) · [UF/IFAS Florida Special background](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hernandoco/2022/02/23/growing-groceries-perfect-pineapples-at-home/) · [UF/IFAS home growing guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/mg055)