Description

Cordyline fruticosa ‘Picasso Red’ is a vibrant, cane-forming tropical shrub prized for its dramatic foliage. The broad, glossy leaves emerge in layers of deep burgundy, cherry red, and hot pink streaks—colors that intensify in bright light. A versatile choice indoors or outdoors in warm climates, this Ti plant adds instant modern tropical flair to entries, patios, and mixed plantings. In ideal conditions it may produce small, starry, pale blossoms followed by ornamental berries, though flowering is uncommon indoors.

Suggested Uses

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCordyline Fruticosa ‘Picasso Red’
• Common NameTi Plant, Hawaiian Ti, Cordyline Fruticosa
• Size & GrowthOutdoors 3–6 ft tall × 2–4 ft wide; indoors typically 2–4 ft. Clumping, cane-forming habit with layered leaves.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 10–12 (9b with protection). Frost-sensitive; best above 55°F (13°C).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen, broad, lanceolate leaves; glossy and variegated in red, pink, and burgundy tones.
• Bloom TimeSummer in warm climates; flowering is occasional and uncommon indoors. Small, starry blossoms followed by berries.
• Growth RateModerate; faster with warmth, bright light, and consistent moisture.
• Light RequirementsBright, indirect light to filtered sun; 2–4 hours of gentle morning sun ideal. Avoid harsh afternoon sun indoors.
• Attracts PollinatorsOccasionally attracts bees and other small pollinators when flowering outdoors; not a primary pollinator plant.
• Indoor FriendlyYes — an excellent houseplant in bright rooms with higher humidity.
• Container FriendlyThrives in containers with good drainage; easy to move for seasonal protection.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant; foliage is typically unpalatable.
• Pet WarningToxic to cats and dogs if ingested (saponins). Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, lethargy. Keep out of reach.
• FragrantFlowers may be faintly fragrant in warm climates; foliage itself is not fragrant.
• Cut FlowerExcellent cut foliage for arrangements; leaves are long-lasting in water.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Croton, Caladium, Coleus, Bromeliads, Anthurium, Bird of Paradise, Ferns, Philodendron (tropicals preferring similar warmth and humidity).

Care Tips

• Planting Instructions Plant in spring after frost. Choose bright, filtered light outdoors or a bright room indoors. Space 24–36 in apart in beds. In containers, use a pot with drainage holes and a slightly snug fit (1–2 in wider than current rootball).
• Soil Moisture Keep evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top 1 inch of mix is dry. Reduce slightly in winter. Use rain, distilled, or filtered water if tap water is high in fluoride to prevent leaf tip burn.
• Soil Type Rich, well-drained medium: 50% high-quality peat or coco coir, 30% fine bark, 20% perlite/pumice. Slightly acidic pH 6.0–6.5. Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soils.
• Humidity Prefers 50–60%+ humidity. Indoors, group plants, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier. Avoid cold drafts and heating vents.
• Pruning Instructions Remove yellowing or lower leaves at the cane with clean shears. Pinch or tip-prune to encourage branching. Leggy canes can be cut back; top cuttings root easily in warm, moist media.
• Winter Care Protect from temps below 55°F (13°C). Bring containers indoors in cool climates. Provide the brightest possible light and reduce watering frequency while keeping soil lightly moist.
• Planting Depth Set at the same depth as in the nursery pot; keep the stem/crown at soil level. Do not bury the cane. Mulch lightly outdoors, keeping mulch 1–2 in off the stem.
• Fertilization Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength (e.g., 3–1–2 or 10–10–10). Alternatively, apply a slow‑release fertilizer at label rate every 2–3 months. Provide micronutrients; flush the pot monthly to prevent salt buildup.
• Special Care Rotate the plant for even color. Wipe leaves to remove dust. Acclimate gradually before increasing sun exposure. Monitor for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale; treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Repot every 1–2 years as roots fill the container.

Tip: Color saturation improves with bright, indirect light. Pale leaves often indicate insufficient light; scorched tips suggest strong sun or salts/fluoride in water.