Plant Profile: Cordyline fruticosa

This perennial tropical plant, often cultivated as a houseplant in temperate regions, is known for its vibrant foliage that can display hues of pale pink, green, purple, or deep red, depending on the specific variety. To preserve its colorful leaves, it thrives in bright light. Water the plant when the surface of the soil feels dry, ensuring that the pot does not sit in water. To increase humidity, place the plant on a saucer filled with pebbles and water. It is important to note that this plant is sensitive to fluoride, so using distilled water for irrigation may be necessary.

Previously classified under the Agavaceae family.

Identification Tips:
This tropical shrub can grow up to 13 feet tall. It is often mistaken for Dracaena species, which lack petioles; in contrast, the Ti plant is entirely green and is the type of grass used in Hawaiian hula skirts. It thrives in bright light, prefers moist soil, and requires medium humidity; if the air is too dry, the leaf tips may turn brown, and it can be susceptible to pests.