How Tall Does Cordyline Grow

If you’re planning a dramatic focal point for your garden, you might be wondering how tall does cordyline grow. Understanding their maximum height and spread is key to placing them perfectly in your landscape.

These striking plants, often called cabbage palms or ti plants, bring a tropical feel to any setting. Their size can vary a lot depending on the specific type and where you grow them. Let’s look at what you can expect so you can choose the right one for your space.

Most common cordyline varieties grown in gardens will reach a mature height between 3 and 10 feet, with a spread of 2 to 4 feet. However, in their ideal, frost-free habitats, some species can become small trees reaching an impressive 20 feet tall or even more.

The spread is generally much narrower than the height, giving them that classic upright, palm-like shape. Remember, these are general ranges. Your local climate, soil, and care will have the final say.

Factors That Influence Cordyline Size

Several things determine how big your cordyline will get. It’s not just about the plant tag.

Species and Cultivar: This is the biggest factor. A compact ‘Red Star’ won’t grow as tall as a Cordyline australis.
Climate: Cordylines grow largest in warm, humid, frost-free zones. In cooler areas, they’ll be smaller and often grown in pots.
Sunlight: More sun typically encourages denser, stronger growth. Too much shade can lead to a leggy, stretched plant.
Soil and Nutrition: Rich, well-draining soil with occasional feeding supports healthier, potentially larger growth.
Watering: Consistent moisture, especially for younger plants, helps them establish and reach there full potential.

Maximum Height of Popular Cordyline Varieties

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from some popular types:

Cordyline australis (New Zealand Cabbage Tree): The giant of the family. In the ground in a mild climate, it can reach 15-20 feet tall over many years. Its spread is 4-6 feet.
Cordyline fruticosa (Ti Plant): Typically a smaller, bushier plant. Indoors or in tropical gardens, it usually maxes out at 4-6 feet tall with a 3-4 foot spread.
Cordyline ‘Red Star’: A very popular variety with burgundy leaves. It’s slower growing and often stays between 3-5 feet tall with a 2-3 foot spread.
Cordyline ‘Electric Pink’: Similar in size to ‘Red Star’, offering vibrant pink and green foliage on a 3-5 foot frame.
Cordyline ‘Southern Splendor’: Known for its striped leaves, it can grow slightly taller, sometimes reaching 6-8 feet in ideal conditions.

Managing the Spread and Controlling Growth

Even though cordylines are naturally upright, you might need to manage their size. Here’s how:

Pruning for Shape and Size

You can actually cut back a cordyline if it gets to tall for its spot. This is best done in spring.

Using clean, sharp loppers or a saw, cut the main trunk at your desired height.
Seal the cut with a pruning sealant to prevent water entering and disease.
New shoots, often multiple, will sprout from just below the cut point, creating a bushier top.

Containing Spread in the Garden

Their root system isn’t aggressively wide, but to control spread:

Plant them with enough space from structures or other plants—at least 3-4 feet for larger types.
You can remove lower suckers (side shoots) that appear at the base if you want to maintain a single-stemmed, tree-like look.

Growing in Containers

This is the easiest way to limit size. A pot naturally restricts root growth, which keeps the plant smaller. Choose a large, sturdy pot with drainage holes and repot every 2-3 years if you want continued growth.

Step-by-Step: Planting for Optimal Growth

To help your cordyline reach it’s healthy maximum size, start it off right.

Choose the Right Spot: Pick a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Shelter from harsh winds is beneficial.
Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the native soil to improve fertility and drainage.
Plant at the Correct Depth: Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm gently.
Water and Mulch: Water deeply after planting. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base (not touching the stem) to retain moisture.

Common Problems That Stunt Growth

If your cordyline isn’t growing well, check for these issues:

Poor Drainage: Soggy soil causes root rot, which severely stunts or kills the plant.
Frost Damage: Cold injury can kill the growing point or damage leaves, setting the plant back.
Insufficient Light: In too much shade, growth becomes weak and stretched.
Pests: Mealybugs, scale, or spider mites can weaken the plant, especially indoors.
Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves can indicate a lack of essential nutrients like nitrogen or magnesium.

FAQ: Your Cordyline Size Questions Answered

How fast do cordylines grow?

They are generally considered moderate growers. In good conditions, you might see 6-12 inches of new growth per year. Some varieties, like ‘Red Star’, are slower.

Can I keep a cordyline small?

Yes. Growing in a container is the most effective method. You can also prune it as described above to control height.

What is the lifespan of a cordyline?

They are long-lived plants. In the right climate, a Cordyline australis can live for decades, even over a hundred years. Tender varieties grown as houseplants also have a long lifespan with proper care.

Do cordylines have invasive roots?

No, they are not known for having invasive or damaging root systems. Their roots are fibrous and relatively compact compared to the plants height.

Why is my cordyline not getting taller?

Check the common problems listed above. The most likely culprits are not enough light, needing a feed, or being pot-bound if it’s in a container. Also, some types are just naturally slow.

Choosing the right cordyline for your space means looking beyond just the color. By considering there ultimate height and spread, you can plant with confidence, knowing your dramatic focal point will fit perfectly for years to come. With a little care, these architectural plants will thrive and provide that lush, exotic look without outgrowing there welcome.