Purple Tower Cordyline
Cordyline australis 'Purple Tower'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
New Zealand and Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Cordyline australis 'Purple Tower' is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree characterized by its upright, columnar growth habit, long lance-shaped leaves with a vibrant purple hue, and clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers. This cultivar is particularly valued for its intense purple foliage, which provides dramatic color contrast in landscape designs and is more tolerant of cold temperatures than other Cordyline varieties.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-draining soil with loam and sand mix.
- Tuck young plants into a sunny spot with partial shade in hotter climates.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Mist cuttings or young plants to maintain humidity.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged leaves
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Overwater or let sit in water ❌
- Expose to freezing temperatures without protection ❌
- Use high nitrogen fertilizer in winter ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Purple Tower Cordyline questions
What zones can Purple Tower Cordyline grow in?
Purple Tower Cordyline is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Purple Tower Cordyline deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Purple Tower Cordyline, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Purple Tower Cordyline bloom?
Purple Tower 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 Purple Tower Cordyline need full sun?
Purple Tower Cordyline does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Purple Tower Cordyline drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Tower Cordyline handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Cordyline to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Purple Tower 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.
