Ti plant
cordyline fruticosa
Also known as: ["Good luck plant","Palm lily","Cabbage palm"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub with colorful, sword-shaped leaves, often used in landscaping and as a houseplant for its striking foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Cordyline |
| Botanical Name: | Cordyline fruticosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in warm months for better light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Avoid overfertilizing to prevent leaf burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite or sand with peat moss; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation medium, plastic bag or dome, mister
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove yellow or dead leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut correctly, remove debris, inspect for pests
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing/browning), wilting, stunted growth, bud drop.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or black; growth slows or halts; risk of root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf edges may scorch; wilting despite soil moisture; reduced vigor due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Cordyline fruticosa. The saponins in the plant can cause digestive upset, similar to effects seen in humans and dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cordyline fruticosa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. These compounds can irritate the lining of the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCordyline fruticosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The plant's leaves and berries contain saponins, which are known to have a detergent-like effect on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cordyline fruticosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Cordyline fruticosa?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on light and humidity.
Q: Can Cordyline fruticosa grow indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors with bright indirect light and moderate humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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