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Description
Ananas Comosus Var. Bracteatus, commonly known as the red pineapple, is a tropical plant and a variation of the Ananas Comosus species. It is native to Central and South America, and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant produces a fruit that is similar to the common pineapple, but with red flesh and a sweeter taste. The red pineapple is popular among gardeners and fruit enthusiasts for its unique color and flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Bromeliaceae |
| Genus | Ananas |
Appearance
The red pineapple has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 1 meter in length. The leaves are green with red edges, and are arranged in a rosette formation. The fruit is a multiple fruit, meaning that it is made up of several individual fruits that have fused together. The red pineapple fruit is smaller than the common pineapple, and has a conical shape. Its skin is green with red markings, and the flesh is deep red with a sweet, juicy flavor.
Care Guide
To care for the red pineapple, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and protection from cold temperatures.Water: The red pineapple requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: The red pineapple benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.Soil: The red pineapple prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to avoid heavy, clay soils that can cause root rot.Sunlight: The red pineapple requires full sunlight to thrive. It is important to provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The red pineapple is not cold-hardy and requires temperatures above 60°F (16°C). It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The red pineapple is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:Pests:- Mealybugs- Scale insects- Spider mites- AphidsDiseases:- Root rot- Leaf spot- AnthracnoseTo prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene, avoid overwatering, and promptly treat any signs of infestation or disease.
Habitat
The red pineapple is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical regions with warm, humid climates. It is commonly grown in gardens and plantations throughout the tropics, and can also be grown indoors in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I know when my red pineapple is ripe?
A: The red pineapple is ripe when the skin turns yellow and the fruit becomes fragrant. You can also gently tug on the fruit – if it comes off easily, it is ripe.
Q: Can I grow a red pineapple from a store-bought fruit?
A: Yes, you can propagate a red pineapple from the crown of a store-bought fruit. Simply cut off the crown and plant it in well-draining soil.
Q: How long does it take for a red pineapple to produce fruit?
A: It can take up to 2 years for a red pineapple to produce fruit. However, once it starts producing, it can continue to produce fruit for several years.
Q: Can I grow a red pineapple indoors?
A: Yes, the red pineapple can be grown indoors in a container as long as it receives adequate sunlight and warmth.
Related Plants
– Ananas Comosus (common pineapple)- Ananas Lucidus (wild pineapple)- Ananas Schiedeana (silver pineapple)
References
– “Ananas Comosus Var. Bracteatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=304215&isprofile=0&basic=red%20pineapple.- “Ananas Comosus Var. Bracteatus.” Plant Care Today. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/red-pineapple.html.- “How to Grow Red Pineapple.” Gardening Know How. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/pineapples/growing-red-pineapple.htm.
