Cordyline australis 'Red Star'

1. Brief Description

Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’, commonly referred to as red cordyline, is an evergreen shrub/small tree distinguished by its long, sword-shaped, bronze-red to burgundy foliage. Its strong architectural habit provides a bold visual focal point in landscape compositions. Mature plants may produce fragrant, cream-white summer panicles, adding seasonal ornamental value.

2. Botanical Information

Attribute	Details
Family	Asparagaceae
Genus / Species	Cordyline australis
Cultivar	‘Red Star’
Origin	Native to New Zealand
Morphology	Erect, often single or multi-stemmed trunk; narrow, sword-like, bronze-red foliage
Flowers	Cream-white, highly fragrant panicles in summer
Fruit	Small berries may develop on mature plants

3. Growing Conditions

Requirement	Recommendation
Light	Full sun to partial shade
Soil	Prefers well-drained substrates (sandy, loamy mixes)
Water	Drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging
Climate / Frost	Tolerates light frost; some sources report hardiness to approx. −5 °C
Soil pH	Adaptable to acidic, neutral, or slightly alkaline soils

4. Care & Maintenance

• Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves from the base to maintain form.

• Feeding: Apply balanced or slow-release fertilizer during active growth.

• Root & Drainage Management: Ensure efficient drainage to protect against root rot.

• Cold Protection: Young plants benefit from winter protection in colder regions.

• Propagation: Typically through well-rooted basal shoots in spring.

• Pest Notes: May be susceptible to red spider mites and scale insects.

5. Landscape Use

Specimen / Focal PlantCreates dramatic architectural contrast as a standalone feature.

Container / Patio PlantingIdeal for terraces, courtyards, poolside, and modern outdoor living spaces.

Linear / Border PlantingEffective as a structural border or repetition-based landscape rhythm element.

Tropical & Contemporary GardensExcellent in modern, coastal, xeriscape or exotic-themed planting schemes.

Low-Water / Sustainable DesignsValuable in water-wise landscaping due to drought tolerance.