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Red Sensation Cordyline

Cordyline australis 'Red Sensation'

Nature Hills Nursery
  • Burgundy-Red Sword-Like Leaves Create Dramatic Tropical Impact in Containers and Gardens Year-Round
  • Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Zones 9-11, Annual 3 - 8
  • Grows 3-6 ft Tall, 1-3 ft Wide
  • Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
  • Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Salt Tolerant
$4337 $6672
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Plant Characteristics Evergreen, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone 9a11b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 3-6 ft
Width 1-3 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Blooms In Summer
Flower Color White
Fragrant Yes
Suitable Space Indoors, Outdoors
Botanical Name Cordyline australis 'Red Sensation'
Species australis
Cultivar Red Sensation
Class Asparagales
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Red Sensation Cordyline survive in my zone (e.g., zone 7 or 8) or does it need to be grown in a pot?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline is only winter-hardy in zones 9-11 as a subtropical evergreen. In zones 7-8, grow it in containers so you can bring it indoors before frost, or treat it as an annual and replant each spring.

What is the mature size and height of Red Sensation Cordyline?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline stays compact in cooler climates but develops into a multi-branched evergreen tree in zones 9-11. In warmer subtropical areas, it reaches full tree size and produces summer blooms. For containers and colder zones, expect a smaller, more manageable plant perfect for dramatic accent use.

How much sun does Red Sensation Cordyline need - full sun, partial shade, or indoor light?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline thrives in both full sun and partial shade conditions. This flexible light tolerance makes it perfect for various garden locations and container placements. Choose the spot that works best for your landscape design.

What type of soil and drainage does Red Sensation Cordyline require?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline thrives in well-drained soil and will perform well in both full sun and partial shade conditions. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, so avoid heavy clay or consistently wet soils. Plant in containers with drainage holes or amend garden beds with compost to improve soil structure.

How often should I water Red Sensation Cordyline, and how do I avoid root rot?
  • Water Red Sensation Cordyline when the top inch of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot, especially in containers. Allow excess water to drain freely and reduce watering frequency in winter zones where it's grown as an annual, available at naturehills.com.

What fertilizer is best for Red Sensation Cordyline, and when should I apply it?
  • Feed Red Sensation Cordyline with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Container plants need more frequent feeding than those planted in beds. Apply monthly in zones 9-11 where it grows as an evergreen tree, and reduce feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy.

Is Red Sensation Cordyline toxic or poisonous to dogs, cats, or kids?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline contains saponins that can be mildly toxic to pets and children if ingested in large quantities. The plant may cause stomach upset, drooling, or mild digestive issues. Keep it out of reach of curious pets and small children, especially when grown as a houseplant.

What pests affect Red Sensation Cordyline, like spider mites or mealybugs, and how do I treat them?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline can attract spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, especially when grown as houseplants or in containers. These pests are more common in dry indoor conditions during winter months. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, applied weekly until clear.

How do I prune or trim Red Sensation Cordyline to prevent legginess?
  • Remove any older damaged or yellowed leaves as they appear to keep Red Sensation Cordyline looking tidy. The plant naturally develops a branched crown structure, so focus on cleanup pruning rather than heavy cutting. Trim consistently throughout the growing season for best appearance.

What are the shipping options and packaging for live Red Sensation Cordyline plants?
  • Red Sensation Cordyline ships as live plants in protective packaging designed for safe transport. These subtropical plants are carefully packed to maintain moisture and protect the sword-like foliage during delivery. Order early in the growing season for best establishment results.
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