Cordyline Care Guide – How to Grow Cordylines in the UK 2025
🌴 Genus: Cordyline
🌴 Common Name: Cabbage Palm
🌴 Ideal for: Tropical borders, coastal gardens, pots and patios
🌴 Hardiness: Hardy to around -5°C to -7°C, depending on variety and protection
Introduction to Cordylines
Cordylines are bold, exotic plants with sword-like leaves that add drama and colour to gardens all year round. Native to New Zealand and Southeast Asia, they thrive in the UK with the right position and care. These evergreen structural plants come in a variety of striking colours, from deep reds to variegated greens and creams.
Perfect for planting in sunny, sheltered spots or large containers, Cordylines create height, movement, and a tropical vibe even in small gardens.
🌿 Featured varieties at Web Garden Centre:
Best Growing Conditions for Cordylines
Light Requirements
☀️ Prefer full sun to light shade
☀️ Ideal for south- or west-facing gardens
☀️ Colour intensity improves with sunlight
Soil Requirements
🌱 Well-drained soil is essential
🌱 Suitable for sandy, loamy, or even chalky soils
🌱 Avoid wet or heavy clay soils
📌 Tip: Improve drainage with grit or sand when planting in heavy soil.
Planting Cordylines
1️⃣ Choose a sheltered, sunny location protected from strong winds
2️⃣ Dig a hole twice as wide as the rootball and incorporate compost
3️⃣ Plant at the same depth as in the pot and firm in well
4️⃣ Water well after planting and mulch around the base
📌 Container planting: Use large pots with drainage holes and a loam-based compost.
Watering & Feeding Cordylines
Watering Tips
💧 Water regularly during the first growing season
💧 Once established, Cordylines are drought-tolerant
💧 Container-grown plants need watering more frequently
Feeding Tips
🌿 Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy foliage
🌿 Liquid feed every 4–6 weeks in summer for vibrant colour
Pruning & Maintenance
✂️ Remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy
✂️ In mature Cordylines, old lower leaves naturally shed over time
✂️ If the main stem becomes leggy, you can cut it back hard in spring – new shoots will emerge below the cut
Winter Care for Cordylines in the UK
Cordylines can tolerate some frost, but young or container-grown plants may need protection.
❄️ Wrap the trunk with fleece or hessian during cold snaps
❄️ Mulch the base to protect roots from freezing
❄️ Move pots to sheltered spots or wrap with bubble wrap for insulation
FAQs About Cordylines
1. Are Cordylines hardy in the UK?
Most varieties are hardy to around -5°C, but may suffer leaf damage in colder areas without protection.
2. Can Cordylines grow in pots?
Yes! They grow very well in large containers, making them ideal for patios and balconies.
3. How tall do Cordylines grow?
Cordyline australis can eventually reach 3–5m, while indivisa types stay more compact but are slower growing.
4. Do Cordylines flower?
Yes – mature Cordylines produce fragrant white or pinkish flowers in summer, followed by small berries.
5. Are Cordylines evergreen?
Yes – they offer year-round foliage, adding structure and colour to the garden even in winter.
6. What’s the difference between Cordyline australis and Cordyline indivisa?
Cordyline australis is more tolerant of a variety of conditions and faster growing. Cordyline indivisa has broader, blue-green leaves and prefers cooler, moister conditions.
7. Do Cordylines like acidic or alkaline soil?
They are not fussy and grow well in neutral to slightly acidic or alkaline soils, as long as it’s free-draining.
8. Can I cut back a Cordyline?
Yes – you can cut back a single trunk to encourage new growth from the base or along the stem.
9. Are Cordylines toxic to pets?
Yes – Cordylines can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Best to place them out of reach.
10. Where can I buy Cordylines in the UK?
Shop top-quality Cordylines including coloured and multi-trunked options at Web Garden Centre:
Final Thoughts on Growing Cordylines
Cordylines are one of the most versatile and striking foliage plants for UK gardens. Whether planted in the ground or featured in large patio pots, they deliver tropical flair, year-round interest, and minimal fuss.
🌴 Browse our full Cordyline collection today at Web Garden Centre and bring instant colour and structure to your outdoor space.