Cordyline australis

Germination

Sow indoors at anytime. Prior to sowing soak seed in warm water for 15 minutes. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil as light is needed for germination. Ideal temp. 18-22°C. Germination takes 8-12 weeks but can take longer. Prone to damping off, treat with fungicide if desired. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on under warm glass for the first full winter. Acclimatise and plant out the following spring as the weather warms.

Growing

Prefers a humus-rich well-drained soil in full or partial sun in a sheltered position. Requires frost-free protection especially if container planted. Can be treated as a house plant.

Cultivation

Propagate via seed or suckers. The lower leaves will turn brown with age, these can be left on the plant or cut off with secateurs, do not pull off as this will damage the plant.