Characteristics of Cordyline Australis

Flowers

• Although Cordyline australis isn't known primarily for its flowers, attractive clusters of small, creamy white blooms appear on mature plants during late spring or summer. Flowers appear only on mature plants and are usually limited to plants grown in the landscape, as containerized plants rarely bloom. The flowers are replaced by pale blue berries, which are eaten by birds.

Foliage

• The foliage of Cordyline australis consists of long, graceful, sword-like leaves. The foliage, which is usually grayish-green in color, can reach lengths of 3 feet at maturity. Some varieties, such as Cordyline australis Purple Tower, have purple foliage, while the foliage of Cordyline australis Red Star is reddish-purple, copper or burgundy.

Size

• At maturity, Cordyline australis grows to heights of 6 to 15 feet, with a spread of 3 to 6 feet. Most trees have single trunks, which are thick and palm-like at maturity. However, in its native habitat, the tree sometimes grows to heights of 20 to 30 feet and often has multiple trunks.

Growing Needs

• Cordyline australis prefers well drained, relatively fertile soil. It thrives in full or partial sunlight, but indoors, does best with bright but filtered light. Indoor plants benefit from moderate watering. Outdoors, Cordyline australis is relatively drought-tolerant, but requires moderate irrigation during warm, dry weather. A regular houseplant fertilizer is adequate for indoor plants. Outdoor plants are usually fed only once per year, in spring or early summer.