Ti plant - Cordyline fruticosa (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Ti plant

Also known as: Bongbush, Cabbage palm

The ti plant is a palm-like shrub that symbolizes the connection between the living and the dead for some Austronesian cultures, having many ceremonial purposes. In practical terms, ti plant is used to make dyes and is grown for ornamentation.

Scientific classification

Species

Ti plant (Cordyline fruticosa)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

1 m to 5 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 2.5 m

Spread

Green, Red, Purple

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Ti plant

Distribution of Ti plant

Distribution Map

Ti plant is native to the islands of the west Pacific. It has spread to southeast Asia and some European and South American countries. Its preferred ecosystem is tropical and subtropical forests.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, forested ridges, thickets, near beaches

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Ti plant is an evergreen shrub or tree commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its attractive multicolored foliage, pleasant scent, and bushy appearance. Its fan shape makes it suitable as an accent plant for borders. Ti plant is good for Mediterranean-style gardens. Plant at the base of a Bismark Palm or with Fox Tail Agave for aesthetic contrast.

Symbolism

Sanctity, blessing, good fortune, welcome

Interesting Facts

The legend goes that Ti is the incarnation of Apollo. Long ago, in order to avoid the enemy's pursuit in a war, Apollo incarnated himself into a Ti and hid there, luckily avoiding the pursuit. Since then, Ti has become the incarnation of Apollo.

Name Story

Ti plant: Ki was considered sacred to the Hawaiian god, Lono, and to the goddess of the hula, Laka. It was also an emblem of high rank and divine power. It later became the Ti plant

Good luck plant: Many people choose to grow this plant because they believe it can release positive energy, bring luck and happiness and resist evil souls. Hence, it is called the good luck plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Ti plant, including the following common varieties :

Ti plant 'Conga'Ti Tree 'Kiwi'

Toxicity

Ti plant is moderately poisonous to cats and dogs. Ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, possibly excessive drooling, loss of appetite, and depression. The plant contains toxic saponins throughout, but fatality is rare due to its poor taste. Veterinary care is recommended if extreme symptoms appear.

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Quickly Identify Ti plant

Leaves range from pale pink to deep red, grooved petioles, 20 inches (50 cm) long.

Terminal panicles with white flowers, 0.4 inches (1 cm) diameter, no scent.

Petite, spherical berries, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) diameter, deep purple to black.

Simple, oblong-lanceolate leaves, 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) long, green tinged with purple.

Clustered, erect stem, smooth, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) thick, branched or unbranched.

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Care Guide for Ti plant

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Thriving in high humidity, ti plant prefers consistent moisture with slight drought tolerance. Water once every 1-2 weeks, ensuring soil hydration without oversaturation. Typically grown indoors, ti plant needs well-draining containers to prevent waterlogging, aligning with its preference for humid conditions.

Fertilize: For ti plant, use high nitrogen fertilizers bi-monthly in spring and summer, reducing to every two months in fall and winter. Apply a balanced diluted liquid fertilizer to moist soil to promote lush foliage and vibrant coloration, avoiding over-fertilization and feeding during dormancy.

Pruning: Ti plant thrives with winter pruning, trimming dead leaves for health and shape. Rejuvenate by cutting back old stems for new growth. Use clean tools to prevent disease, and avoid excessive pruning to maintain its natural form while encouraging bushier growth and enhancing aesthetics.

Propagation: Originating from tropical Asia and Pacific islands, ti plant is propagated via healthy stem cuttings. Allow the cut end to dry before planting in well-draining mix. High humidity and warmth promote rooting, while monitoring for pests and consistent watering ensure successful establishment.

Repotting: Repot ti plant every 2-3 years to support growth. Spring is ideal for repotting, allowing recovery after winter. Select pots for root expansion, ensuring bright, indirect light and moist soil without waterlogging post-repotting. This approach fosters ti plant's lush foliage and structural integrity.

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Images of Ti plant

Distribution of Ti plant

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Ti plant

Care Guide for Ti plant

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