Red Sensation Cordyline

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: Full sun provides the most intense burgundy color and sturdy growth. While it tolerates partial shade, fewer than six hours of direct sun often results in greener leaves and a more stretched out appearance.
• Soil: This plant thrives in rich and well draining soil that holds some moisture without staying soggy. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a raised bed or a container to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water deeply two or three times a week to help the root system reach deep into the ground. Once established, Red Sensation is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture will cause the lower leaves to turn brown and drop prematurely. Aim for a steady schedule that keeps the soil feeling like a wrung out sponge rather than cycling between bone dry and soaking wet.

Pruning Tips

Cordyline grows from a central terminal bud, so you generally only need to remove the oldest bottom leaves as they naturally fade to keep the trunk looking tidy. If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, you can cut the main stem back in early spring to encourage new sprouts to form lower down. Think of it like a reset button that forces the plant to bush out rather than just reaching for the sky.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because they stimulate soft and tender growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost of winter. A single application of a general purpose garden food is usually enough to maintain that deep red foliage all season long.