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Centered in the southwest Pacific region (one species in tropical
America), most species of this genus of 15 or so species of somewhat
palm-like evergreen shrubs and small trees are tropical or
subtropical, Cordylines resemble dracaenas in habit and foliage, but
differ in the flowers which are small and starry, borne in large
panicles, and in the red, black or whitish fruits.
A peculiarity is their underground rhizome that grows downward,
sometimes emerging through the drainage apertures of a pot; its main
function appears to be food storage.
Flowering colors: Mauve, Purple, White
Cultivation: Cordylines do well in rich, well-drained soil.
The narrower-leafed New Zealand species are the most sun hardy, and
Cordyline australis tolerates salt spray near the ocean; the species
with broader, thinner leaves like a sheltered position in part
shade, though will tolerate full sun if humidity is high.
Most can be kept in pots or tubs for many years as indoor or patio
plants.
Easily propagated from seed or stem cuttings. |
