Cordyline
Known as the Hawaiian Ti plant or good luck plant, Cordyline fruticose is a tropical plant with colorful wide leaves.
Most Popular Types
Growing Hobby usually has full-size Cordyline hot pepper, red sister, and harlequin. A smaller version called electra is sometimes available.
Light
Full sun produces the best leaf color but may also turn the edges of the leaves brown. It should be shaded during the hottest hours of the day. It can be grown indoors near a sunny window.
Temperatures
Cordyline prefers temperatures between 65 and 95°F. It cannot tolerate prolonged periods below 50°F.
Watering
Cordyline is accustomed to a tropical environment and will benefit from raising the level of humidity if kept indoors.
Browning of leaves may be caused by an excess of fluoride in the water. Using distilled water is preferred.
Toxicity
Cordyline is extremely toxic to dogs and mildly toxic to cats.
Growth
Some varieties of Cordyline can grow to 10 ft in their native environment. Those kept indoors will likely reach maximum height of 4 ft.
Leaves will die out as the plant matures. You can cut lanky stalks as low as 6 inches from the soil. It will branch out and become fuller.
Potted plants can be kept alive for more than 50 years if they are repotted every few years.
Origin
The Ti plant is native to eastern Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.
Propagation
Propagation is easiest by placing cuttings in water or dividing at the base.
Dormancy
Cordyline is winter dormant.