Cordyline petiolaris

Cordyline petiolaris Cordyline petiolaris

What is the plant

Cordyline petiolaris, known as the broad leaved palm lily is an evergreen Australian plant. A shrub to around 5 metres tall. Found in warm rainforest and moist eucalyptus forest.

Cordyline petiolaris is a midsized, slender, shrubby species from eastern Australia that grows up to 6 m (20 ft.) tall. The leaves are fairly broad and carried on a distinct stalk. Clusters of small purple flowers appear in spring, followed by showy red, edible fruits in summer. It will adapt well to both tropical and warm temperate climates. The range of natural distribution is from the Nambucca River to near Gladstone, Queensland.

If you’ve recognized any mistakes feel free to notify us about it. This would help us to provide only the best-quality information.

Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

18°C - 22°C

Hardiness zone

12 - 8

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

Water
Water the plant thoroughly until water drips through the drainage hole, but only when the 1/2 inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the pot to drain, and then pour out water that remains in the drainage saucer. Alternatively, place the pot in a sauce of water and allow the soil to absorb water until the top of the soil feels damp. Either way, never allow the bottom of the pot to stand in water.
Sunlight
The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Bright light brings out the brightest colors in the foliage.
Fertilizer
Feed the plant a weak solution of a water-soluble fertilizer for indoor plants. Mix the solution at a rate of 1 teaspoon of fertilizer for every gallon of water, and then apply the fertilizer once every month during spring and summer. Alternatively, use a time-release fertilizer applied according to the directions on the label.

Want to learn more about plants?

Explore our easy-to-read educational Blog

Soil
Plant in a potting mixture that holds moisture without remaining soggy. A high-quality commercial potting mixture works well, or you can create your own from a mixture of 1 part sand, 1 part perlite, and 2 parts peat moss.
Temperature
A temperature range of 60°F-85°F is preferred. Lower temperatures may damage leaves.
Container
Use a sturdy pot with a drainage hole in the bottom. Raise humidity around the plant with a bed of pebbles or gravel.