Family:  Bromeliaceae
Scientific name:  Ananas cosmosus
Common name:  Pineapple

Native of:  Southern Brazil, Paraguay

Greenhouse location:  Room B

The pineapple (Ananas cosmosus) is one of the most familiar of a group of plants referred to as bromeliads.

The pineapple was grown in glass houses specifically called "pineries" during its introduction to the western world in the 16th century. In tropical regions, the plants are grown on large plantations. The natural method of pollination occurs by hummingbirds, but hand pollination is preferred in artificial cultivation to deter seed development.

A. cosmosus, like other bromeliads, produces offsets that can be divided from the main plant and grown into a mature plants. The top of the fruit produces leaves that, when removed and placed in soil, can become a new plant. Fun for kids to try and grow their own pineapple!