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Cordyline

Cordyline plants can bring a splash of color and tropical feeling to any space. Their long leathery leaves range in a wide variety of colors from cream, pink, green, to burgundy. These plants tend to grow more up than out, so this plant is perfect to fill any vertical space with a lush vibe. Some cordyline varieties even bloom with large terminal panicles in the early summer, but this does not often happen indoors. These blooms are anywhere from white to lavender in color and will produce fragrant berries.

How to care for your Cordyline

Use these instructions to care for a Cordyline. This guide will tell you how to water a Cordyline; its light, temperature, humidity preferences and any additional care it might need to help it grow.

Cordyline

LIGHT

Your cordyline will perform best in bright to medium-bright indirect light. Dark-colored cordylines can tolerate bright light once acclimated, but if your cordyline is variegated with lighter colors, indirect light is best. A sunny eastern window or a few feet away from a southern or western window is best.

WATER

Water your cordyline when the top 25-50% of soil is dry. Water thoroughly, and be sure to empty the saucer of any excess water to prevent root rot. Never let this tropical plant dry out all the way.

HUMIDITY

Your cordyline needs a high humidity level. Mist the leaves regularly, place a humidifier nearby, or use a pebble tray to raise the humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Your cordyline prefers temperatures between 65-85°F. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

FOOD

For best results, use a liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength once a month during the spring and summer. Never apply fertilizer to dry soil; always make sure the soil is damp before feeding your plant.

TOXICITY

Your cordyline is considered to be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Can cause stomach irritation and vomiting.

ADDITIONAL CARE

Look out for a common problem called ‘tipping’ when the tips of the leaves dry out and turn brown. The most common cause is tap water, which contains salts, chlorine, fluoride, and other elements that may be harmful in excess. To prevent this, you can use distilled water or rainwater.

Grow Beyond Expectations

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What's a Cordyline?

Botanical Classification: Cordyline fruticosa

About

Cordylines are native to tropical southeast Asia, eastern Australia, and some Pacific islands. Keep this in mind when bringing this plant home as mimicking their native environment will help them thrive. These plants prefer their soil to be kept moist and flourish with ample humidity. Depending on the color of the leaves, cordylines prefer indirect to bright light. Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer growing seasons. 

Fun Fact

Originally brought to the Hawaiian Islands as food, it became one of the most sacred plants in the Island’s culture.

Pictured Left: Cordyline

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