Ananas comosus var. bracteatus, commonly known as the ornamental pineapple, is a perennial herb that is a variant of the species Ananas comosus, which is known for its edible fruit. This variety, however, is primarily grown for its decorative qualities rather than fruit production. It is native to tropical American rainforests, where it thrives in warm, humid conditions with well-drained soils. The ornamental pineapple typically reaches a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and spreads 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) wide. It features a rosette of spiny, lance-shaped leaves and produces a striking flower head that is a composite of many flowers; these are followed by small, non-edible pineapples. The flower head is often red or purple with bright blue flowers, making it quite showy when in bloom.

The ornamental pineapple is valued for its exotic appearance and is often used in tropical-themed gardens, as a container plant, or as an indoor houseplant in colder climates. It requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking a tropical look with little effort. In cultivation, it prefers bright light but can tolerate part shade, and it requires a well-draining soil mix. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during the growing season. It is not typically subject to serious pests or diseases, but root rot can occur in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0