Titi
cordyline indivisa
Also known as: ["New Zealand Cabbage Palm","Mountain Cabbage Tree"]
Overview
A striking evergreen tree-like plant native to New Zealand, characterized by a single trunk and large, sword-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Cordyline |
| Botanical Name: | Cordyline indivisa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in moist medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base or just above a node; remove spent flower stalks entirely.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed to control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged leaves, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 compost for fertility, ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, bud drop, wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, use frost cloth if outdoors in cold weather, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, increased water demand in high heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, ensure good air circulation, mist leaves in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Cordyline indivisa. The plant contains compounds that can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare. Prompt veterinary care is advised if ingestion is suspected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cordyline indivisa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. While not typically fatal, ingestion may cause discomfort and require veterinary attention if symptoms persist.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCordyline indivisa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The plant's leaves and berries are the primary toxic parts, containing saponins and other irritants that may lead to discomfort but are generally not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cordyline indivisa suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: While it can be grown indoors in bright, spacious areas, it is primarily an outdoor plant and thrives best in garden settings.
Q: How often should Cordyline indivisa be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Cordyline indivisa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts birds and insects, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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