Cordyline, also known as ti plants, cabbage tree or Hawaiian good luck plants, are a group of evergreen, tropical trees and shrubs native to Australia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands. They are known for their colourful, elongated leaves that can range in colour from green to red, pink, and purple.
Cordyline plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. They are also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, as long as they are protected from frost.
One of the most interesting things about cordyline plants is their cultural significance. In Hawaii, they are known as “kī” and are considered sacred plants. They are often used in traditional hula performances and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Another interesting fact about cordyline plants is their versatility. They can be grown in the ground, in pots, or even as bonsai. They can also be trained to grow in a variety of shapes, including as a tree or a bush.
Four great options for your garden
Cordyline Raspberry Fountain
Cordyline Raspberry Fountain, also known as the “Cordyline Australis Raspberry Fountain,” is a cultivar of the Cordyline genus. It is known for its striking, vibrant red and pink foliage, which forms a fountain-like shape.
This cultivar is a relatively small plant, typically growing to a maximum height of around 75cm high and 1m wide. It is a slow-growing plant, but with proper care, it can reach its full size in several years.
Cordyline Raspberry Fountain prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures as long as it is protected from frost. It is also drought-tolerant, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.
One of the things that makes Cordyline Raspberry Fountain an attractive option for a garden is its unique, fountain-like shape and vibrant red and pink foliage. It is also a versatile plant, it can be grown in the ground, in pots and it can be used as an accent plant or as a focal point. Additionally, it is relatively low maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a great option for gardeners of all experience levels.
Overall, Cordyline Raspberry Fountain is an attractive, versatile and low maintenance option for gardens, and it is perfect for those who want to add a colorful and unique touch to their garden.
You can buy Cordyline Raspberry Fountain here
Cordyline Caruba Black
Cordyline Caruba Black, is known for its striking, dark purple-black foliage that forms a fountain-like shape. Caruba Blck grows 1.2m high and 50cm wide, it has a slow growth rate, but with proper care, it can reach its full size in several years.
Cordyline Caruba Black likes well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight, it is also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures as long as it is protected from frost, and it is drought-tolerant. This plant prefers warmer climates and should be protected from frost and extremely cold temperatures.
One of the things that makes Cordyline Caruba Black an attractive option for a garden is its unique and striking dark purple-black foliage, which makes it a great focal point in any garden. It is also a versatile plant, it can be grown in the ground, in pots, or even as bonsai. It can be used as an accent plant or as a focal point. Additionally, it is relatively low maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a great option for gardeners of all experience levels.
Overall, Cordyline Caruba Black is an attractive, versatile and low maintenance option for gardens, and it is perfect for those who want to add a unique and striking touch to their garden with a dark foliage plant.
You can buy Cordyline Caruba Black here
Cordyline australis Peko
Cordyline australis Peko is a cultivar of the Cordyline genus. It is known for its striking, green and cream striped foliage that forms a fountain-like shape. This cultivar is a larger Cordyline growing 3m high and 1.5m wide.
Cordyline australis Peko likes well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight, it is also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures as long as it is protected from frost. It is also drought-tolerant, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.
One of the things that makes Cordyline australis Peko an attractive option for a garden is its unique, green and cream striped foliage, which adds a striking contrast to any garden. It is also a versatile plant, it can be grown in the ground, in pots and does well in coastal positions. Additionally, it is relatively low maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a great option for gardeners of all experience levels.
Overall, Cordyline australis Peko is an attractive, versatile and low maintenance option for gardens, and it is perfect for those who want to add a unique and striking touch to their garden with a contrast foliage plant.
You can buy Cordyline australis Peko here
Cordyline Kasper Green
Cordyline Kasper Green is a cultivar of the Cordyline genus. It is known for its striking, green foliage that forms a fountain-like shape. It grows 3m high and 1 meter wide.
Cordyline Kasper Green likes well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight, it is also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures as long as it is protected from frost. It is also drought-tolerant, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.
One of the things that makes Cordyline Kasper Green an attractive option for a garden is its lush green foliage, which adds a tropical touch to any garden. It is often grown in tropical or Mediterranean gardens beside a pool or in a coastal setting. It is a low maintenance and drought tolerant plant.
Overall, Cordyline Kasper Green is an attractive, versatile and low maintenance option for gardens, and it is perfect for those who want to add a tropical touch to their garden with a lush green foliage plant.
You can buy Cordyline Kasper Green here
Are Cordyline considered drought tollerant?
Yes, Cordyline are considered drought-tolerant, meaning that it can survive and even thrive with minimal water. They are able to store water in their thick, fleshy leaves and stems, allowing them to withstand periods of drought. Great plant if you are looking to save water.
How much water do cordyline need each week?
Cordyline plants will do will with around 20mm of water per week. However, once established they can go for long periods without water.
How often should Cordyline be pruned?
Cordyline plants should be pruned as needed, typically every few years or as the plant grows. Pruning helps to control the size of the plant and promotes bushier growth.
When is the best time of year to prune?
The best time of year to prune cordyline is during the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Pruning at this time will encourage the plant to produce new growth and will help to shape the plant. Avoid pruning during the autumn or winter, as this can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to frost damage.
Should Cordyline be cut back?
Cordyline plants can benefit from regular pruning to promote healthy growth and maintain their shape. The frequency and extent of pruning will depend on the specific variety and the desired shape of the plant.
To maintain the shape of the plant, it is a good practice to prune the tips of the leaves as they grow, this will help to keep the plant bushy and promote new growth.
If the plant has become too tall or leggy, it can be cut back to the desired height. This is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. When cutting back Cordyline, it’s important to make sure that at least one pair of leaves is left on each stem. This will ensure that the plant can continue to photosynthesize and produce new growth.
If the plant is damaged by frost or other environmental factors, pruning the damaged leaves is helpful as it will encourage new growth.
It’s important to note that pruning can be stressful for the plant, so it’s best to prune only when necessary and to avoid pruning too much at once. Should you accidentally over prune your plant or something similar happens, this product helps the plant become more resilient to stress.
How quickly do cordyline grow?
Growth Rate of Cordyline Cordyline grows relatively slowly, and it can take several years for the plant to reach its full height. Cordyline typically grows around 20-30 cm per year. However, the growth rate of cordyline may vary depending on the plant’s cultivar, the growing conditions and the plant’s overall health. As a general rule, cordyline plants grown in optimal conditions will reach their full size in several years, while those grown in less favourable conditions may take longer.
Should Cordyline be fertilised?
Yes, Cordyline should be fertilised. Fertilisation helps to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. However, it is not always needed, these are considered low maintenance plants.
What fertiliser is best for Cordyline?
A balanced fertiliser that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is best for Cordyline. Some varieties of Cordylines do well with liquid fertilisers if trying to encourage more growth and colour, others prefer a slow-release fertiliser as it will provide the plant with a steady supply of nutrients over time.
How do you apply fertiliser to a Cordyline? Granule fertiliser can be applied to cordyline by mixing it into the soil around the base of the plant, or by applying it as a foliar spray. When applying fertiliser to cordyline, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the amount and frequency of application.
How often should Cordyline be fertilised?
If just trying to encourage general health a slow release fertiliser once a year in spring, in most circumstances will be all that is needed.
However, if you trying to promote more growth, you will need to fertilise more regularly. Fertiliser frequency depends on the fertiliser used. Liquid fertilisers often need to be reapplied every 2-4 weeks. (This is an awesome liquid fertiliser and soil conditioner.) Most granule fertilisers will last 4-8 weeks. Slow release fertilisers can last 3,6 or even 12 months. Read the manufacturer’s instructions, that will let you know when to reapply the fertiliser you have chosen.
What pests are common with Cordyline?
Common pests that can affect Cordyline include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can cause damage to the foliage by sucking the sap from the leaves, which can cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. In addition, these pests can also produce a sticky residue called honeydew which can lead to the growth of sooty mold fungus on the leaves. To control these pests, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as discoloured or distorted foliage, and to take action as soon as possible. Gardeners can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control these pests, and it is also important to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris to reduce the chances of pest infestation. (Here is where you can find some horticultural oil; make sure to double check that it suits your goals.)
What diseases are common with Cordyline ?
Common diseases that can affect Cordyline include root rot, stem rot, and leaf spot.
Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and become mushy. This can cause the plant to wilt, yellow, and eventually die. Root rot is typically caused by over watering or poor drainage. To control root rot, it is important to improve the drainage around the plant and to reduce the amount of water that the plant receives.
Stem rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the stem of the plant, causing it to rot and become mushy. This can cause the plant to wilt, yellow, and eventually die. Stem rot is typically caused by a combination of factors such as high humidity, poor air circulation, and over watering. To control stem rot, it is important to improve the air circulation around the plant and to reduce the amount of water that the plant receives.
Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that attacks the foliage of the plant, causing small, circular spots to form on the leaves. These spots can be yellow, brown, or black in colour and can eventually cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To control leaf spot, it is important to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris, and to apply a fungicide as directed by the manufacturer.
To prevent and control these diseases, it is important to provide proper care for your cordyline and to keep an eye out for any signs of infection or infestation. It’s also important to use clean tools when pruning and or working with the plants, and to avoid over watering and poor drainage.
Are Cordylines best in pots or ground?
Cordyline can be grown in both pots and the ground, depending on the specific variety and the growing conditions.
Growing Cordyline in pots can be a good option for those who have limited space or for those who want to move the plants around easily. Cordyline grown in pots will need to be repotted every year or two, or when the roots start to fill the pot. When grown in pots, they should be planted in well-draining potting soil and watered regularly.
Growing Cordyline in the ground is a good option if you have a larger garden or a suitable spot in your yard where it can be planted. This can be beneficial as Cordyline plants can grow quite large and will have more room to grow. They are usually planted in well-draining soil and can be watered regularly.
It’s important to note that cordylines prefer well-draining soil and a spot with plenty of sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. When grown in pots, they will require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground.
Overall, both options can be suitable for Cordyline plants, depending on your specific needs and the growing conditions in your area.
How long do cordylines live?
The lifespan of a Cordyline can vary depending on the specific variety and the growing conditions.
In general, Cordyline is considered to be a long-lived plant and can live for many years with proper care. Some varieties can live for up to 20 years or more. However, some Cordyline varieties may have shorter lifespans and may need to be replaced after a few years.
Factors that can affect the lifespan of a Cordyline include the type of soil, the amount of light, the amount of water and fertilizer, and whether or not the plant is exposed to pests or diseases. Proper care and maintenance can help to prolong the life of a Cordyline plant.
It’s also important to note that cordylines are generally considered to be evergreen but in cold climates they may lose some leaves, but it will come back to life in spring.
Should I cut off brown Cordyline leaves?
Brown leaves on a Cordyline plant can indicate a few different things, so it is important to determine the cause before making a decision about whether or not to cut them off.
If the brown leaves are located at the bottom of the plant and are old, it is normal for them to turn brown and dry out. These leaves can be cut off to tidy up the plant and promote new growth.
If the brown leaves are scattered throughout the plant, it could be a sign of a pest infestation or disease. In this case, it is best to remove the affected leaves and treat the plant for the specific pest or disease.
If the brown leaves are located at the top of the plant and are new, this may be a sign of over watering or too much shade. In this case, it is best to reduce the amount of water you give the plant and ensure it is getting enough sunlight.
In general, it is a good practice to regularly check your Cordyline plant for any brown leaves and remove them as needed. This will help to keep the plant healthy and promote new growth.
It’s also important to note that if the browning of leaves is caused by environmental conditions such as too much direct sunlight, cold, or wind, the plant will recover on its own, it may take time but the new leaves will come in green.
Do cordylines have invasive roots?
The root systems of Cordyline plants are generally not considered invasive. They typically have a shallow, fibrous root system that spreads out horizontally, rather than growing deep into the soil. This makes them well-suited for growing in containers or in gardens with shallow soil.
However, it’s important to note that some species of Cordyline may have more aggressive root systems, such as Cordyline australis, which can spread and become invasive in some areas.
If you’re planning to plant Cordyline in the ground, it’s important to be mindful of the space you have available and to choose a variety with a root system that will be appropriate for your garden.
If you’re planting Cordyline in a pot, it’s important to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the roots and to make sure the plant is not pot-bound, this will help to prevent the roots from becoming too crowded and stressed.
It’s also important to make sure that the soil in the container is well-draining and that you don’t over water the plant. This will help to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and stressed, which can lead to root rot.
Why is my outdoor cordyline turning brown?
There are several reasons why an outdoor Cordyline plant may be turning brown. Some of the most common causes include:
- Environmental stress: Cordyline plants are sensitive to environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, frost, and drought. If the plant is exposed to these conditions, the leaves may turn brown and die.
- Overwatering: Cordyline plants prefer well-draining soil and can be sensitive to overwatering. If the soil is too wet or the plant is sitting in standing water, the roots may become waterlogged, leading to root rot. This can cause the leaves to turn brown.
- Underwatering: Similarly, Cordyline plants also require regular watering. If the soil is too dry, the leaves may wilt and turn brown.
- Pest or disease: Cordyline plants can be affected by pests such as scale insects and mealybugs, or diseases such as fungal infections. These can cause the leaves to turn brown and die.
- Lack of light: Cordyline plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If the plant is not getting enough light, the leaves may turn brown and become limp.
- Fertilizer burn: Over fertilizing, or using a fertilizer that is not suitable for Cordyline can cause leaf burn and browning.
It’s important to determine the cause of the browning so that appropriate action can be taken to correct the issue. If the problem persists, it’s best to consult a horticulturist or gardener for further advice.
How do I stop my cordyline leaning?
There are several steps you can take to stop your Cordyline from leaning:
- Provide support: If your Cordyline is leaning because it is not stable in its current position, you can provide support to help it stand upright. This can be done by using a stake or a bamboo cane, inserted next to the stem and securely tied to the stem to keep it upright.
- Improve soil conditions: Cordyline plants prefer well-draining soil, if the soil is too wet or too heavy, the plant may lean over. Consider adding organic matter to the soil to improve drainage.
- Rotate the plant: Cordyline plants grow towards the light, so rotating the plant every few months can help to prevent it from leaning too much in one direction.
- Provide enough light: Cordyline plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If the plant is not getting enough light, it may lean towards the direction where it is getting the most light.
- Balance the plant: If the plant has become top heavy, you can try to balance it by removing some of the leaves from the heavier side of the plant.
It’s important to keep an eye on the plant and take action as soon as you notice it leaning, as the longer you leave it, the harder it can be to correct.
Can I cut the top off my cordyline?
Yes, it is possible to cut the top off a Cordyline plant. This process is known as “topping” or “heading” the plant. Topping a Cordyline can be done to control the plant’s size, shape, or to encourage bushier growth.
When cutting the top off a Cordyline, make sure to use sharp, clean shears or a pruning saw. The cut should be made just above a leaf node, or a point where new growth will emerge from the stem. Avoid cutting too close to the base of the plant, as this can damage the root system, for a healthy 1m tall Cordyline you can cut down to about 20cm from the ground. if you are looking for some really good shears, here are two great options depending on your budget: option 1 and option 2. If you are looking for a great folding saw, this is my recommendation.
It’s important to note that topping a Cordyline can cause stress to the plant and should be done with care. It may also take some time for the plant to recover, so it’s best to do it during the growing season. Topping can also reduce the overall height of the plant and make it bushier, but it may also encourage more leaves to grow rather than flowers.
It’s also important to keep in mind that if you are cutting the top off the cordyline in order to control its size, it’s best to do it when the plant is young and small, as it will be easier to manage.