Cordyline Hilo

Position your Cordyline Hilo in bright, indirect light to bring out the richest burgundy and rose tones in the foliage; too little light and the colour fades toward green, while harsh direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. A warm, draught-free spot suits it best, and it will happily reward a little extra humidity with lush, glossy growth. Mist occasionally or group it with other plants to lift the moisture around it.

Water when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry, keeping the mix lightly and evenly moist through the warmer months and easing back in winter so it never sits wet. Cordylines are sensitive to fluoride and salts, so rainwater or filtered water helps keep leaf tips clean. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season, and wipe the leaves now and then to keep them dust-free and shining.