Cordylines

Cordylines is an online digital publication in the renowned Subtropical Gardening Collection series, created by Wayne L. Lyons. This edition highlights the diversity, garden beauty, and cultural importance of the Cordyline genus, with a special focus on Cordyline fruticosa, one of the most iconic foliage plants in the subtropical and tropical regions.

Overview

The Cordylines edition provides a thorough look into these vibrant, foliage-rich plants that shape tropical garden design. Through vivid photography, detailed profiles, and expert cultivation advice, it shows how Cordylines add structure, texture, and lasting colour to warm-climate gardens. It continues the Collection’s goal of combining botanical knowledge with practical horticultural craft for enthusiasts across the subtropics.

Content Highlights - Readers will find:

Botanical perspectives on Cordyline fruticosa, cultivars and hybrids cultivated across Australia.

Horticultural expertise focused on colour variation, leaf form, and selection for subtropical climates—from shade-tolerant varieties to full-sun cultivars suited to coastal and humid environments.

Collector and grower insights, curated from regional specialists and tropical plant enthusiasts who cultivate these species for their ornamental and landscape value.

Landscape inspiration, showcasing gardens that integrate Cordylines to achieve a lush subtropical aesthetic—blending texture, hue, and architectural form.

The publication embodies a balance between botanical comprehension and horticultural passion, designed to inspire gardeners to cultivate, conserve, and celebrate Cordylines responsibly. Each feature captures the interplay of art, science, and environment—emphasising their role in enriching tropical and subtropical landscapes.

Cordyline fruticosa problems & solution-based management

Main takeaway: Cordyline fruticosa is generally hardy, but in warm, humid Australian conditions, it can be affected by sap-sucking insects, chewing pests, leaf spots, rots, fungal and Bacterial diseases and a standard range of environmental and nutritional issues. Most problems can be effectively controlled through good cultural practices and a basic selection of products (oil/pyrethrum or systemic for insects; copper, mancozeb, or phosphorous acid for fungi; along with balanced nutrients).

The Subtropical Gardening Collection - Cordylines is a Digital Online Edition - Published Mid December 2025.