Cordyline Fruticosa Rubra

• Native to Southeast Asia and Pacific islands, this cultivar has been selected for its intense red and burgundy foliage colouration.
• Grows in an upright, palm-like form with long, arching leaves that emerge from a central stem, creating tropical architectural appeal.
• The 'Rubra' variety maintains its rich colour even in lower light conditions, unlike many coloured foliage plants that fade to green.
• Popular for its low maintenance nature and ability to adapt to both indoor and outdoor conditions across most Australian climate zones.
• Produces small white or pink flowers on mature plants, though it's primarily grown for its stunning ornamental foliage display.

• Water weekly during warm months, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings, and reduce to fortnightly in winter.
• Position in bright, filtered light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors - avoid harsh direct sunlight.
• Plant in well-draining potting mix enriched with compost, ensuring containers have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Apply liquid fertiliser monthly from September to March, reducing to every 6-8 weeks during cooler months.
• Prune dead or damaged leaves at the base with clean secateurs to maintain appearance and plant health.
• Maintain humidity with regular misting in dry conditions, especially during Australian summer heat waves.
• Protect from frost and cold winds in winter, moving potted plants to sheltered locations when temperatures drop below 10°C.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or dappled shade outdoors - avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch the colourful leaves.
• Water when top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
• Maintain humidity around 50-60% with regular misting or humidity trays, especially important in air-conditioned rooms during Australian summers.
• Keep temperatures between 18-25°C for optimal growth - protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C in winter.
• Feed monthly with liquid fertiliser during growing season from spring to early autumn, then reduce to bi-monthly in winter.

• Scale insects can attach to leaf undersides - wipe leaves with diluted neem oil solution weekly until cleared. Check regularly as early detection prevents major infestations.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water - increase humidity with pebble trays and use rainwater or filtered water for watering.
• Root rot from overwatering causes yellowing lower leaves and soft stems - reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil if roots are mushy.
• Spider mites appear in dry conditions as fine webbing on leaves - increase humidity and spray with water regularly to deter them.