Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’, a member of the Asparagaceae family, is a remarkable subtropical tree native to the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. This stunning cultivar is known by various names, including Cabbage Tree ‘Red Star,’ Cabbage Palm ‘Red Star,’ New Zealand Cabbage Palm ‘Red Star,’ New Zealand Dragon Plant ‘Red Star,’ Palm Lily ‘Red Star,’ Red Grass Palm, or locally known as tī Kōuka.
Reaching heights of up to 6 meters or 10 feet, Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ exhibits a distinctive branching habit reminiscent of a palm tree. Its architectural allure is further enhanced by the presence of striking, sword-like leaves with a vibrant red hue. These arching leaves create a captivating display, adding a touch of drama and visual interest to any landscape. During the spring and summer months, Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ produces delicate panicles of small, sweetly scented white flowers, providing an enchanting contrast against the richly colored foliage.
How to grow Cordyline australis ‘Red Star‘:
Sun or Light Shade: When cultivating Cordyline australis ‘Red Star,’ it thrives in areas with ample sunlight or light shade. Plant it in a location that receives direct sunlight for a significant portion of the day, or in a spot with partial shade, allowing for optimal growth and development.
Fertile, Moist, and Well-Drained Soil: To ensure the health and vigor of Cordyline australis ‘Red Star,’ plant it in fertile soil that retains moisture while also offering excellent drainage. This cultivar showcases its adaptability by tolerating various soil types, allowing you to grow it successfully in a wide range of garden settings.
Salt and Drought Tolerance: Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ exhibits impressive resilience to both salt and drought conditions, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens or regions with limited water availability. Its ability to withstand these challenging environmental factors ensures its continued beauty and vitality in diverse landscapes.
Frost Tolerance and Protection: While Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ is generally frost-hardy, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage. If you reside in an area prone to frost, consider providing protection to your plants during severe winter conditions. Applying a layer of mulch around the base can insulate the roots and minimize the risk of cold-related harm.
Deer-Resistant and Vigilance against Pests: Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ boasts deer-resistant characteristics, making it an excellent choice for gardens frequented by these animals. However, it’s important to remain vigilant against potential pests. Keep a watchful eye for common nuisances such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Promptly address any pest issues using organic methods to preserve the plant’s health and beauty.
Propagation by Seed or Offsets:
Propagating Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ can be achieved through either seed or offsets. Collect seeds from mature plants and sow them in a suitable growing medium. Alternatively, look for offsets that develop around the base of the parent plant and carefully detach them for individual planting. Both methods provide an opportunity to expand your collection of this striking cultivar.
Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’ offers a remarkable blend of bold foliage, architectural presence, and ease of care. Whether as a focal point in a garden or as part of an eye-catching landscape composition, this striking cultivar is sure to capture attention and inspire admiration with its captivating beauty.
