Eucomis vandermerwei Octopus

Eucomis vandermerwei ‘Octopus’ is a wonderfully quirky, exotic-looking plant that brings instant wow-factor to pots and sunny borders. Often called a Pineapple Lily, it produces dramatic flower spikes topped with a “tufted” crown of foliage, giving that signature pineapple shape—only this one is extra theatrical. ‘Octopus’ is loved for its bold presence, with dark, often speckled foliage and a striking, architectural silhouette that looks like it belongs in a tropical border (without needing a plane ticket).

It’s a fantastic choice for patio containers, where you can enjoy the unusual flowers up close, and it also works beautifully in mixed borders alongside cannas, dahlias and grasses. Eucomis is surprisingly easy to grow—just give it warmth, sun and good drainage.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Eucomis bulbs in spring once the soil is starting to warm. For earlier growth, you can start bulbs in pots under cover from March to April, then move outside after the risk of frost has passed.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil. Eucomis is ideal for patio containers, tropical-style borders and gravel gardens. It prefers warmth and dislikes sitting in cold, wet soil.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs around 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep, with the growing point facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart, or plant one per pot for best impact.
• Soil Prep: Improve drainage on heavy soils by adding grit. In pots, use a free-draining compost and ensure good drainage holes.

Watering:
Water after planting, then keep soil lightly moist as growth begins. Once in full growth, water regularly in dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Container plants will need more frequent watering in warm weather.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed every 1–2 weeks in summer with a balanced or high-potash feed to encourage strong flowering.
• Leave foliage to die back naturally after flowering—this helps feed the bulb for next year.
• In colder areas, lift and store bulbs dry and frost-free over winter, or move pots under cover.

Top Tip:
For a real statement display, grow Eucomis ‘Octopus’ in a pot and place it near the patio—its dramatic shape and dark foliage look amazing with dahlias, cannas and ornamental grasses.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

July - September

Height:
12–24" (30–60cm) approx.

Position:
Full sun

Tender / Half-hardy Bulb:
Protect from frost; overwinter frost-free in the UK (especially in pots or colder areas)