The Cordyline ‘Kaspar’ is a top-notch ornamental plant that is prized for its dramatic, almost black foliage and strong, upright architectural form. This cultivar is an excellent choice for adding contrast and structure to any garden or pot. It forms an elegant, clumping column of sword-like leaves that are a very deep, glossy burgundy or black-purple colour, making it a fantastic dark backdrop for brighter flowering plants. It grows with a neat, narrow habit, making it ideal for tight spaces.
Caring for Your ‘Kaspar’
- Growing Conditions: To achieve the deepest, darkest colour in the foliage, plant ‘Kaspar’ in a spot with full sun. It will also tolerate part shade, but the foliage may turn a slightly greener shade of purple. It is a tough plant, adaptable to most well-draining soils. It also has a good tolerance for coastal conditions and moderate frosts once established.
- Watering: Water regularly while the plant is young to help it establish a strong root system. Once settled, it’s quite drought-tolerant, but a deep soak during long, dry summer spells will keep the leaves looking lush.
- Feeding: Feed your Cordyline with a slow-release, general-purpose fertiliser in spring and again in autumn to encourage healthy, vigorous growth.
- Pruning: Pruning is simple. Just remove any old, damaged, or brown lower leaves by pulling them down and off the stem. If the plant becomes too tall, you can cut the trunk cleanly at the desired height, and it will usually sprout new heads from the cut point.
Usage in the Garden
‘Kaspar’ is a versatile plant that makes a big impact. Its strong vertical lines and dark colour make it perfect for flanking an entrance, planting in a row as a stunning low screen, or using as a feature in a pot on a patio or balcony. It also looks sensational in a mixed border, where it provides a dark colour that really makes surrounding greens, yellows, and pinks pop.
