Cordyline stricta is a tall, narrow plant to about 6-15' tall. The leaves are deep, glossy green, linear in shape and up to half a metre long by about 1" wide with a sheathing base. The small white to purple flowers occur in winter and spring in clusters (panicles) from the upper leaf axils. They are followed by black berries.
This is the most commonly cultivated of the Australian species and has proven to be adaptable in a range of climates although it is a little frost tender and may be damaged in colder areas. The plant usually recovers from damage, however. It prefers moist soils in semi shade but is surprisingly tolerant of extended dry conditions once established. When small, it makes an excellent container plant and can be kept indoors for long periods.
Hardy zone 9-11
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Sowing instructions
Plant immediately in clean seedling mix of 2/3 washed river sand and 1/3 peat moss or organic matter. Seed germinates readily within 4 weeks (some will continue to germinate over a longer period). Seed will store if kept cool and dry and protected from insect and vermin attack.
