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Jumbie-pineapple

Tillandsia utriculata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Jumbie-pineapple (Tillandsia utriculata)
Photo: Bobyellow / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

24"–48" H × 18"–36" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

FL

Jumbie-pineapple is a large native bromeliad that grows as an epiphyte on trees or in the ground. This impressive air plant produces a tall flowering spike in spring and maintains attractive gray-green foliage year-round. It requires minimal care once established and adds tropical character to landscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Jumbie-pineapple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Unconventional appearance may seem too wild for formal landscapes
  • Large size can appear unstructured
  • Epiphytic nature makes it look unusual to traditional gardeners

Wildlife value

The spring flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant's structure provides nesting sites and shelter for small birds and beneficial insects.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Jumbie-pineapple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.