Red Sensation Cordyline
Cordyline australis 'Red Sensation'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
New Zealand
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs and cats
The Story
Plant Bio
Cordyline australis, commonly known as the cabbage tree, is a tall, evergreen shrub or small tree characterized by its long, sword-shaped leaves and upright, spiky flower panicles that appear in dense clusters, often displaying a striking red hue. The 'Red Sensation' cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, deep red foliage that provides a dramatic splash of color, making it a popular choice for ornamental use in landscape design.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a well-draining, sunny location for planting.
- Tuck young plants into the soil, firming gently around roots, during spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not expose to frost; mulch generously in cold regions
- Refrain from heavy pruning that may stress the plant
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Sensation Cordyline questions
What zones can Red Sensation Cordyline grow in?
Red Sensation Cordyline is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Sensation Cordyline deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Red Sensation Cordyline, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Red Sensation Cordyline bloom?
Red Sensation Cordyline typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Sensation Cordyline need full sun?
Red Sensation Cordyline does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Sensation Cordyline drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Sensation Cordyline handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Red Sensation Cordyline with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
