Ti Plant
Cordyline fruticosa glauca
glauca
About this plant
Cordyline fruticosa glauca, commonly known as the Ti Plant, is admired for its striking blue-green leaves with a glossy finish. It is a tropical shrub often grown for its colorful foliage rather than flowers. The plant adds a vibrant touch to gardens and indoor spaces and is culturally significant in many Pacific Island traditions.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cordyline
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Asparagales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, especially in Hawaii, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Increase humidity by misting or using a humidity tray if air is dry.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
Cordyline fruticosa glauca is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Overwatering can cause root problems, so allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Glossy, blue-green lance-shaped leaves with a striking color; small, fragrant flowers in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally safe around children and pets, but avoid ingestion of large amounts as it may cause mild stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Cordyline fruticosa glauca may cause mild skin irritation in some people who are sensitive to its sap. The plant's pollen is not a common allergen. To reduce any risk, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf browning from too much direct sun or underwatering, and root rot from overwatering. Pests like spider mites or scale insects may occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage in gardens and indoors. It also holds cultural importance in Pacific Island traditions.
Notes
Prune dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and allow room for growth. Sensitive to cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F).