Description

Cordyline fruticosa ‘Silver Lining’ is a compact, cane‑forming ti plant showcasing narrow, arching leaves brushed with cool silver and green variegation. In warm conditions it forms a clumping habit with multiple shoots, creating a vertical accent with elegant, layered foliage. While it may produce small, lightly fragrant blooms in late spring to summer outdoors, this cultivar is grown primarily for its striking, year‑round leaves and dependable performance in containers or bright interiors.

Suggested Uses

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCordyline fruticosa ‘Silver Lining’
• Common NameTi Plant, Hawaiian Ti
• Size & GrowthOutdoors 3–6 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide; indoors typically 2–4 ft. Upright, cane‑forming, clump‑building habit with offsets over time.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 10–12 (9b with protection). Frost sensitive; protect below 55 °F (13 °C), avoid freezing.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen, variegated, strappy leaves with cool silver‑green tones; best color in bright light.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to summer in warm climates; modest, occasional; flowers are not the main feature.
• Growth RateModerate; faster with warmth, bright light, and humidity.
• Light RequirementsBright, indirect light to dappled sun; morning sun is fine, avoid harsh afternoon rays. Low light dulls variegation.
• Attracts PollinatorsOccasionally attracts bees and butterflies when flowering outdoors; minimal indoors.
• Indoor FriendlyYes — thrives near bright east or north windows; supplement with grow lights in darker rooms.
• Container FriendlyExcellent in pots; use a well‑drained mix and a container with generous drainage holes.
• Deer ResistantModerate — generally unpalatable, but not deer‑proof if browsing pressure is high.
• Pet WarningToxic to cats and dogs (saponins). May cause drooling, vomiting, or lethargy if ingested; keep out of reach.
• FragrantLightly fragrant blossoms on mature plants outdoors; flowering is uncommon indoors.
• Cut FlowerLeaves are excellent, long‑lasting foliage for tropical arrangements and leis; condition in water before use.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Croton, Caladium, Coleus, Bromeliads, Alocasia/Colocasia (elephant ears), Begonias, Ginger, Canna, Ferns.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring after frost. Set at the same depth as the nursery pot; space 24–36 in apart. Loosen roots gently and water in thoroughly. In containers, choose a pot 1–2 inches wider with drainage holes.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Indoors, allow the top 1–2 inches to dry before watering again. Reduce watering in winter; avoid standing water in saucers.
• Soil TypeRich, loose, well‑draining mix with organic matter. Ideal pH 6.0–6.5. A blend of coco coir or peat, pine bark, and perlite promotes aeration and root health.
• HumidityPrefers 50–70%+ relative humidity and warm temperatures (60–85 °F / 16–29 °C). Use a humidifier or pebble tray in dry interiors and avoid cold drafts.
• Pruning InstructionsRemove yellowing or tattered leaves at the base. Tip‑prune to encourage branching. Rejuvenate leggy plants by cane‑cutting above a node; new shoots will emerge below the cut. Always use clean tools.
• Winter CareProtect from temperatures below 55 °F (13 °C). In cool zones, bring containers indoors before cold snaps. Provide bright light and reduce watering; mulch outdoor roots in frost‑free climates.
• Planting DepthPlant with the crown at soil level; do not bury stems. In pots, leave ~1 inch headspace for watering and stake canes if top‑heavy.
• FertilizationFeed lightly in spring–early fall with a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer, or apply a half‑strength liquid feed monthly. Flush the potting mix every 6–8 weeks to prevent salt buildup.
• Special CareSensitive to fluoride/chlorine — use rain or filtered water to prevent tip burn. Rotate the plant for even growth. Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale; treat early with insecticidal soap or neem. Repot every 1–2 years.

Note: Cultural performance varies by light, temperature, and humidity. ‘Silver Lining’ color is richest with bright, indirect light and consistent warmth.