Red Pineapple (apple)

File:Rød ananas.jpg

Red Pineapple (Ananas bracteatus) is a species of pineapple native to South America. It is known for its striking red fruit and ornamental foliage. The red pineapple is often grown for decorative purposes and is also edible, though it is not as commonly consumed as the more familiar yellow pineapple.

Description

The red pineapple is a perennial plant that grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. It has long, arching leaves that are green with red margins and spines along the edges. The plant produces a rosette of leaves from which a single, central flower spike emerges. The flowers are purple and give way to a compound fruit that is red when ripe.

Cultivation

Red pineapples are typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The plant is propagated through suckers or slips that grow at the base of the mature plant. It requires minimal maintenance but benefits from regular watering and fertilization.

Uses

While the red pineapple is primarily grown for its ornamental value, the fruit is edible and can be used in the same way as the common pineapple. It is often used in decorative displays and as a landscape plant in gardens and parks.

Distribution

The red pineapple is native to countries in South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It has been introduced to other tropical regions around the world, where it is grown both as an ornamental plant and for its fruit.

Related Species

• Ananas comosus - The common pineapple, widely cultivated for its sweet, edible fruit.
• Ananas nanus - A smaller species of pineapple with similar ornamental uses.

Gallery

• 

  Red Pineapple plant

• Ananas bracteatus fruit.jpg

  Close-up of Red Pineapple fruit

See Also

• Pineapple
• Bromeliaceae
• Tropical fruit