Cordyline Red Heart - 3ltr pot
£15.00
The Cordyline australis 'Red Heart' is a striking, palm-like evergreen known for its deep green, sword-shaped leaves with a vivid red core. As the plant matures, the foliage can develop richer burgundy hues. It is grown for its bold architectural form, which makes it an excellent focal point in Mediterranean, coastal, and modern garden designs, or in a container.
Growth and appearance
- Architectural form: The plant starts as a tuft of leaves, then forms a sturdy, single trunk over time. The foliage gathers at the top in dense, arching clusters.
- Foliage: The deep green, sword-like leaves are marked by a prominent red stripe in the center and at the base, creating its signature "red heart".
- Flowers: Mature plants can produce trusses of small, fragrant, white flowers during the summer. These are followed by small red or purple berries in the autumn.
- Size: 'Red Heart' can reach a mature height of 3 to 5 meters (10 to 16 feet) but remains smaller when grown in pots.
Care requirements
- Sunlight: This cordyline thrives in full sun, which helps bring out the deepest red color in the foliage. It can also tolerate partial shade.
- Soil and drainage: Use fertile, well-draining soil for both in-ground and container planting. For pots, add horticultural grit to improve drainage, as the plant does not tolerate soggy roots.
- Watering: Water regularly during its first growing season until it is established. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering during the growing season.
- Fertilizing: Feed container plants with a balanced, liquid fertilizer from spring to late summer. In-ground plants generally don't need feeding.
- Pruning: 'Red Heart' requires minimal pruning. Simply pull off old, dead leaves that have turned brown.