Cordylines in Hawaii
Last year the Burke’s Backyard team visited Hawaii, and filmed some spectacular foliage plants which the locals call ti. In Australia we know them as cordylines. The starchy roots (or rhizomes) of these plants were highly valued as food by the Melanesians and Polynesians, who spread them throughout the Pacific region. In Hawaii the traditional ‘grass’ skirts worn by hula dancers were actually made from cordyline leaves (Cordyline fruiticosa). Ti will grow best in the tropics. In cooler areas they don’t do as well, and need protection from cold winters.
Cordylines are palm-like, evergreen shrubs. The most popular species grown in Australia is the New Zealand cabbage tree (Cordyline australis), which will grow in all areas. Their foliage colour ranges from plain green through to brightly coloured, spotted, streaked and variegated varieties. They can be planted in the garden or grown in pots and tubs. For best foliage colour, they need a brightly lit position. Do not allow plants to dry out between waterings. Cordylines are easily propagated from seed or stem cuttings.