Phnom Penh Pineapple
Family: Bromeliaceae is a genus that includes pineapples, with Phnom Penh pineapple being a unique variety.
Origin: Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, this plant has adapted well to warm climates and is now cultivated in various parts of the world.
Morphological Characteristics:
The Phnom Penh pineapple features 20 to 25 leaves arranged in a spiral from the outermost to the innermost, forming a rosette shape. The leaves are thick, stiff, and glossy, with a sword-like shape that curves outward. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green with yellowish-green edges, while some leaves have faint yellow and green stripes running through the middle. Small, blunt thorns line the leaf margins. The underside of the leaves is pinkish green, matching the color of the leaf's outer layer.
Flowering Periods:
There are two distinct viewing periods for the Phnom Penh pineapple’s flowers:
1. Flower Bud Viewing Period:
The flower buds of the Phnom Penh pineapple are striking and visually appealing. A cylindrical column about 2.5 cm in diameter sits above the base, with a round, hammer-shaped calyx. Approximately 25 to 30 "potato chip" shaped pods are arranged from the bottom up, resembling a bamboo shoot. These form a dark pink to pink cylinder that looks like a red bamboo shoot embedded within the plant. This stage lasts about two weeks, allowing for an extended ornamental period. Moving the plant indoors to a shaded area can extend the display of the flower buds for up to three weeks.
2. Full Flower Viewing Period:
When the flower buds (or bulbs) split open, straight stems emerge. The flowers themselves are umbel-like clusters consisting of 16 small blossoms. Each flower has three lobes, with a yellow center, red middle, and purple tips. The flowering season typically occurs in spring and summer, offering a beautiful display of flowers, while the foliage remains attractive throughout the year, making it an excellent ornamental plant.
Growth Habits:
The Phnom Penh pineapple thrives in slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It requires a growing medium that is coarse in texture, retains moisture well, and drains effectively. A common mix includes peat soil, sawdust, and coco peat in a ratio of 6:3:1, or a combination of mud and coconut coir. Water quality is crucial—when the pH exceeds 7, the plant may suffer from nutrient deficiency, resulting in dull leaves, scale formation, and reduced photosynthesis. High pH levels can also lead to heart rot and root rot.
Tap water often contains high levels of sodium and chlorine, which can be harmful if used directly. Groundwater or river water should be tested before use due to regional variations in composition. Rainwater is the best choice for irrigation.
In summer and autumn, the plant should be watered once a week. Misting the leaves helps maintain humidity, and keeping the central cup filled with water is important. During hot midday hours, it’s essential to avoid using hot water for irrigation.
In other seasons, watering should be reduced to prevent root rot caused by over-saturation. In winter, avoid excessive misting, while increasing it during spring and fall to support growth.
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