Cordyline australis 'Red Star'Red Star Cordyline

The Cordyline australis 'Red Star', commonly known as Red Star Cordyline, is a striking evergreen plant valued for its dramatic, upright, sword-like leaves in a rich burgundy-red hue. This low-maintenance, architectural plant adds bold colour and vertical interest to gardens and containers. Growing up to 2 to 4 metres tall and 1 to 2 metres wide, it is ideal for feature planting, mixed borders, or modern landscaping designs.

Specifications

• Height2 to 4 metres
• Width1 to 2 metres
• Native toNew Zealand (species origin)
• FoliageLong, narrow, burgundy-red leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained soils; adapts to sandy, loamy, or slightly poor soils
• LightFull sun to partial shade; foliage colour intensifies in brighter light
• WaterLow to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in temperate, subtropical, and Mediterranean regions

Additional Features

• FlowersSmall, fragrant white flowers on tall panicles in summer (rarely flowers in cultivation)
• FormUpright, clump-forming habit with bold, sword-shaped leaves
• UsesPerfect for feature planting, borders, mass planting, or containers
• SpacingPlant 1 to 2 metres apart for individual displays or mass planting
• Low MaintenanceMinimal care; remove old or damaged leaves to maintain appearance
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free; resilient and hardy
• Drought ToleranceHigh once established; suitable for water-wise gardens
• Frost ToleranceHandles light frost; suitable for mild winter climates
• Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage provides year-round structure and colour
• VersatilityComplements tropical, contemporary, and minimalist garden designs

The Red Star Cordyline is a versatile and hardy plant, perfect for creating bold focal points or adding year-round interest to gardens and landscapes. Its striking foliage and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels.