| Botanical Name | Cordyline fruticosa 'Red Sister' |
| Description | A show-stopping tropical perennial for Willis and Houston, 'Red Sister' is prized for its dramatic, arching leaves of deep burgundy streaked with electric pink. It adds instant height and a lush, exotic feel to any landscape. While it loves the Texas humidity, it is a tender perennial; in our local winters, it must be protected from hard freezes or grown in a container to be moved indoors. To succeed in local clay, ensure it is planted in a well-drained area with plenty of organic matter to keep the roots happy. |
| Exposure | Partial Shade to Filtered Sun (Protect from the harsh Houston afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch) |
| Height x Width | 4-6 ft. Tall x 2-3 ft. Wide |
| Water | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but requires excellent drainage. Do not allow to sit in standing water during heavy Houston rains. |
| Zones | 9 - 11 (Treat as a tender perennial; protect from frost) |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to maintain the vibrant pink coloration. |
| Pruning | Minimal pruning is needed. Simply remove any tattered or old lower leaves to maintain a clean, upright trunk. |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |
| Botanical Name | Cordyline fruticosa 'Red Sister' |
| Description | A show-stopping tropical perennial for Willis and Houston, 'Red Sister' is prized for its dramatic, arching leaves of deep burgundy streaked with electric pink. It adds instant height and a lush, exotic feel to any landscape. While it loves the Texas humidity, it is a tender perennial; in our local winters, it must be protected from hard freezes or grown in a container to be moved indoors. To succeed in local clay, ensure it is planted in a well-drained area with plenty of organic matter to keep the roots happy. |
| Exposure | Partial Shade to Filtered Sun (Protect from the harsh Houston afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch) |
| Height x Width | 4-6 ft. Tall x 2-3 ft. Wide |
| Water | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but requires excellent drainage. Do not allow to sit in standing water during heavy Houston rains. |
| Zones | 9 - 11 (Treat as a tender perennial; protect from frost) |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to maintain the vibrant pink coloration. |
| Pruning | Minimal pruning is needed. Simply remove any tattered or old lower leaves to maintain a clean, upright trunk. |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |