The Hawaiian Ti plant (Cordyline fruticosa) is known for its vibrant, colorful foliage. This tropical evergreen naturally grows upright, developing a treelike form with a central stalk topped by a cluster of leaves. While its vertical growth adds exotic appeal, it can eventually become too tall for its designated space. Managing its height allows for continued enjoyment.
Pruning for Height Management
When to Prune
The most effective time for significant pruning of your Hawaiian Ti plant is during the active growing season, typically in mid-spring or early summer. This timing allows the plant to recover quickly and channel its energy into producing new growth. You can remove discolored or damaged leaves at any time of year to maintain the plant’s appearance.
How to Prune
When reducing the height of your Hawaiian Ti plant, begin by selecting clean, sharp, sterilized pruning tools to prevent disease transmission. Identify the desired new height, then make a cut approximately 6 to 12 inches above the soil line, or where you wish new branching to occur. Cutting just above a leaf node or scar encourages new growth. Making a slightly angled cut can help water run off, reducing the risk of rot. Strategic pruning controls height and encourages multiple new shoots, leading to a bushier, fuller appearance.
What to Expect After Pruning
After pruning, your Hawaiian Ti plant will respond by developing new shoots from below the cut, often resulting in multiple stems emerging from the pruned area. This process contributes to a denser, more rounded plant habit. Recovery is usually swift, with new foliage appearing quickly. Monitor the pruned plant for signs of stress and ensure it receives proper care during this recovery period.
Propagating Cuttings
The sections removed during pruning can be used to create new Hawaiian Ti plants. To prepare stem cuttings, select healthy portions of the pruned stems and remove any lower leaves, leaving a few at the top. Cut stems into 4 to 8-inch segments, ensuring each has at least one or two nodes. Keep track of the original “up” direction of each cutting.
You can root these cuttings in water or a well-draining soil mix. For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass with 1 to 2 inches of water, changing the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. For soil propagation, plant the cuttings directly into moist potting mix, ensuring good drainage. Applying a rooting hormone can enhance success, though many Ti cuttings root readily without it.
Provide bright, indirect light and maintain consistent warmth, ideally between 65 to 95°F, along with adequate humidity, which can be achieved through misting. Roots typically begin to form within two to five weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted.
Maintaining Desired Height and Plant Health
Regular, lighter pruning helps maintain your Hawaiian Ti plant’s height and overall health. This involves removing any yellowing, browning, or damaged leaves as they appear, which helps direct the plant’s energy towards healthy growth. Occasional tip pruning can also encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
Beyond pruning, providing optimal growing conditions are important. Hawaiian Ti plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They prefer consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil and benefit from warm temperatures with high humidity. Regular fertilization during the growing season and repotting every one to two years also contribute to maintaining a healthy plant.