Ivory Pinapple Ananas comosus var. comosus

Variegated pineapple is an herbaceous perennial that is slow-growing and clump-forming and is native to the tropical areas of South America. It features colorful, spiky, strap-like, variegated leaves, a central spike with tubular flowers, and an ornamental fruit. The genus name, Ananas, is derived from a South American Indian name. The specific epithet, comosus, means "tuft" and probably references how it produces its flowers and fruit.  It is a member of the pineapple family (Bromeliaceae).

This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and slightly acidic, well-drained sand or organically-rich soil. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. They perform best in moderately humid and warm conditions with temperatures between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. They are not frost tolerant and must be brought indoors before temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They may be propagated from suckers or pups that grow between the leaves and from slips or small shoots at the base of the fruit. 

The plant is grows 2 to 3 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide and is an evergreen basal rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves. The leaves are grayish-green and are variegated lengthwise along the margins with yellowish-white stripes. The edges of the leaves are tinged in red and are sharp or saw-toothed. The flowers appear on a central spike, and they are small, tubular, and lavender to reddish purple. From 50 to 200 flowers are produced, and they bloom over a period of several weeks. They develop into a syncarp type fruit that grows up to 12 inches long. A single fruit is produced, and then the plant will decline. The pups are produced as a means of propagation.

In frost-free locations, it can be grown outdoors as a specimen or accent plant. Otherwise, it needs to be planted in a container and moved indoors for the winter or grown as a houseplant. It does produce an edible fruit, but the fruit lacks the sweet taste of cultivated pineapples grown in optimal conditions. The variegated pineapple is often grown as a decorative houseplant or as a specimen plant for the patio. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and nematodes. Potential diseases include heart rot, black rot, and base rot.  Avoid overwatering, prolonged wet conditions, and poor drainage. Good air circulation  and using sterile tools and clean containers will help prevent fungal diseases. It may require several years before they are produce fruits. The fruits are also slow to mature. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.

The leaves have sharp edges and can cause injury. The plant's fruits, leaves, and sap are poisonous to humans and can cause contact dermatitis or mouth irritation. 

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