This stunning bloom is emerging from one of the toughest plants we have in Florida. I've always referred to this as wild pineapple. . .but it is actually a Bromeliad or Bromelia pinguin L. The USDA refers to its common name as simply, "Pinguin."
The plant's leaves are sharper than serrated knives. . .even its roots are barbed. . .and it is in mass bloom in the middle of one of our driest, hottest Springs . . .after one of our coldest winters in years.
I planted this in the paths leading into the backyard in Debary. . .to stop the children coming through. . .it is now covering about 1000 sq. feet . . .each plant reaching about 4-feet tall. No one is coming through there anymore.
Lake Theresa continues to disappear, quickly.
