Cordyline petiolaris
broad leaved palm lily
Overview
Cordyline petiolaris is an evergreen, palm-like clumping shrub that forms one to several erect cane-like stems 6-13 feet (2-4 m) tall, with foliage held in a tuft toward the top of each stem. The leaves are broad and strap-shaped, 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) long and 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) wide, glossy dark green, narrowing to a distinct stalk at the base. Large branched flower sprays up to 24 inches (60 cm) long carry many small mauve to lilac flowers in spring and summer. These are followed by rounded glossy red berries 0.3-0.5 inch (8-12 mm) wide that are eaten by birds. C. petiolaris grows in the understorey of subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest in eastern Australia, in shaded, sheltered, moist sites. It is frost-sensitive and the broad leaves scorch in strong sun and wind, restricting it to protected positions. Old stems can be cut back to encourage basal regrowth.
Native Range
Cordyline petiolaris is native to eastern Australia, occurring in coastal and near-coastal Queensland and New South Wales. It grows in the understorey of subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest.Suggested Uses
C. petiolaris is grown as a foliage and feature plant in shaded subtropical gardens, courtyards, and atriums, spaced 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 m) apart. It also suits large containers and sheltered understorey plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 13'
Width/Spread3' - 6'
Reaches mature size in approximately 5 years
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
mauve to lilacFoliage Description
glossy dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-5 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
C. petiolaris grows in part to full shade in a warm, sheltered, frost-free position. It needs moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and even watering through the growing season. The broad leaves scorch in strong sun and wind, so a protected site is needed. Frost damages foliage and stems, restricting outdoor use to USDA zones 9-11. It also grows well in large containers in bright, indirect light.Pruning
Cutting old or bare stems back to near ground level prompts fresh basal shoots and keeps clumps dense. Removing dead lower leaves tidies the stems. No regular pruning is otherwise needed.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
winter
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons