Cordyline 'Cabbage Palm' 19cm

Common name: Indoor Cordyline (Cabbage Palm)

Latin name: Cordyline fruticosa (commonly grown indoors)

Best position in the home: Prefers bright, indirect light. A spot near a window with filtered light is ideal. It can tolerate some gentle direct sun, which can help enhance leaf colour, but avoid harsh midday sun. Perfect for living rooms or bright offices.

Water requirements: Keep the soil lightly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid letting the plant sit in water. Reduce watering in winter. Prefers moderate humidity, so occasional misting can help, especially in drier homes.

Home impact: With its vibrant, often pink, red, or purple-toned foliage, Cordyline adds a bold, tropical feel to interiors. It creates height and structure, making it a great statement plant. Not pet-friendly, as it can be toxic if ingested.

Potential height at full growth: Typically grows to around 60–120cm indoors, though it can reach taller over time in ideal conditions.

How to look after it: Place in bright, indirect light and keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Use a well-draining houseplant compost. Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser. Keep in a warm room and avoid cold draughts. Wipe leaves occasionally and repot every couple of years as it grows.

Beginner friendliness 3/5 

Confident Beginner! Cordylines are fairly easy to care for but can be sensitive to watering and light levels. With the right balance, they grow well and maintain their vibrant colour.

Leaf tips may brown if humidity is too low or if watered with hard tap water. Using filtered water and maintaining humidity can help keep the foliage looking its best.