Cordyline australis ‘Southern Splendour’ – Exotic Stripes for Bold Garden Colour

The Cordyline australis ‘Southern Splendour’ is a striking evergreen shrub that brings an instant touch of the exotic to the garden. Its long, sword-shaped leaves are boldly striped in pink, red, and deep green, creating a vibrant, architectural display all year round. As the plant matures, it develops a slender trunk and forms a palm-like silhouette, making it a perfect feature plant for modern gardens, tropical-themed borders, or large patio containers.

With its bold variegation and upright habit, ‘Southern Splendour’ adds drama and colour wherever it is planted. It is hardy in mild areas, but container-grown plants can be moved to shelter in colder regions to protect them from severe frost. Whether grown as a focal point or as part of a mixed display, this cordyline is guaranteed to draw attention.

General Information

Cordylines, also called cabbage palms, are native to New Zealand and admired for their striking foliage and architectural shape. The ‘Southern Splendour’ cultivar is particularly prized for its vibrant striped leaves and upright growth.

• Habit: Upright, evergreen shrub with a palm-like form as it matures.

• Height & spread: Typically grows 2–3m tall and 1–1.5m wide in UK conditions.

• Foliage: Long, arching, sword-shaped leaves striped in shades of pink, red, and green.

• Flowers: Mature plants may produce fragrant clusters of white flowers in summer, followed by berries attractive to wildlife.

• Flowering season: Usually June to July in established plants.

• Position: Best in full sun to partial shade for maximum leaf colour.

• Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil; tolerates sandy or loamy ground.

• Hardiness: Hardy in coastal and mild areas; may need winter protection in colder regions.

• Uses: Excellent as a focal specimen, in large patio containers, or for exotic and contemporary planting schemes.

Its colourful leaves provide year-round interest, making it as valuable in winter as in the height of summer.

Care Guide

Cordyline australis ‘Southern Splendour’ is easy to grow, needing little attention once established.

Planting

• When to plant: Best in spring or early summer to allow establishment before winter.

• Depth & spacing: Plant at the same depth as in the pot; allow 1m spacing if planting in borders.

• Preparation: Add grit or sand to heavy soils to improve drainage.

• Containers: Use a large pot with free-draining compost to encourage healthy root growth.

Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.

• Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from deep watering in prolonged dry periods.

• Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser, and again in midsummer to support strong foliage colour.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove any dead or damaged leaves at the base to keep plants looking tidy.

• Cut flower stems back once they fade to maintain strength and shape.

• If the plant forms multiple stems after flowering, allow them to grow for a fuller, bushier appearance.

• Refresh container compost every 2–3 years to maintain vigour.

Protection

• In colder regions, wrap the crown with horticultural fleece in winter to protect against frost.

• Mulch around the base with bark or straw in late autumn to insulate roots.

• Container plants can be moved to a sheltered porch or greenhouse during severe winters.

Why Choose Cordyline australis ‘Southern Splendour’?

This bold, colourful cordyline adds instant drama, structure, and year-round colour.

• Striking foliage: Variegated leaves striped in pink, red, and green.

• Architectural form: Upright habit provides strong garden structure.

• Year-round interest: Evergreen leaves look good in every season.

• Versatile use: Works well in borders, containers, or as a specimen plant.

• Low-maintenance: Hardy in mild climates and easy to grow.

The Cordyline australis ‘Southern Splendour’ is the perfect choice for gardeners who want vibrant colour and architectural style with minimal maintenance. Whether creating a tropical effect, brightening a patio container, or adding height to a border, this cordyline delivers reliable impact year after year.

• Size
  P21

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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