The large leaves of variegated pineapple lily are strappy and lanceolate, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in length. They exhibit a vibrant green color with the undersides often mottled in purple. The leaves are fleshy and broad, with a smooth texture and parallel vein pattern running along their length. The contrasting purple mottling and the substantial size make these leaves a distinctive feature for identifying variegated pineapple lily.

The flowers of variegated pineapple lily are arranged in a cylindrical raceme on stout stems, with creamy-white florets streaked in purple. Individual flowers are star-shaped, each with 5 petals. The florets are approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and emit a faint sweet scent. They typically bloom from late summer to early fall, adding a striking vertical element to gardens. These distinctive flowers are essential for identification, with their unique bicolor pattern and structured petal arrangement.

The stem of variegated pineapple lily is characterized by its distinctive maroon-speckled appearance. The stems are typically thick and sturdy, measuring approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The texture is smooth yet firm, providing a strong support for the plant. The stems show minimal branching, maintaining a predominantly vertical growth habit. This speckled pattern runs continuously along the length of the stem, making it a unique and easily identifiable feature for enthusiasts.

The fruit of variegated pineapple lily manifests as a capsule, typically three-lobed, housing numerous small, round seeds. Once mature, these capsules exhibit a distinctive bicolor palette, primarily green with notable purple hues, especially towards the capsule tips and seed surfaces. The texture of the ripe fruit presents a papery feel, hinting at the underlying seeds which may reach about 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) in diameter. These dry fruits disperse their seeds primarily through passive mechanisms, such as the splitting of capsules.