Quackin Grass Nursery

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Eucomis x 'Rhode Island Red' - Pineapple Lily from Quackin Grass Nursery

Eucomis x 'Rhode Island Red' - This exceptional hybrid is progeny from the wizardry of Ed Bowen of Opus Plants. This sporty child from the cross of E. autumnalis ssp. pole-evansii with E. comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy' has materialized into a very sturdy plant coupled with hybrid vigor. 'Rhode Island Red' bests 'Sparkling Burgundy' in that it has less tendency to flop, the leaves more likely to remain erect providing better over-all form for longer. The inflorescence appears to be broader and is huge, approaching 3 feet in height. Packed florets are a magnet for all manner of winged insect drawn by its magic potion. Come late season the seed pods stud the inflorescence becoming opalescent dark amethysts providing the appearance of a second flowering season. This late season wonder is really quite extraordinary (see pic). 'Rhode Island Red' may not be quite as hardy as 'Sparkling Burgundy' or 'Oakhurst. Makes a spectacular potted plant in the north which is easy to overwinter in the corner of a cool basement – just keep it dry with perhaps one mid-winter watering if in a warmish spot. Will make an extraordinary grouping in a southern landscape. Established pot grown division.