The Cordyline glauca, sometimes called the Blue Ti Plant or Good Luck Plant, is an ornamental species known for its long, slender, blue-green leaves that bring a tropical aesthetic to any space. Originating in the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, Eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands, it is generally easy to maintain indoors. Providing the correct environment and care regimen is important for this plant to thrive.
Setting Up the Ideal Environment
The Cordyline glauca flourishes in locations that provide bright, indirect light. Placement near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a bright south or west-facing window works well, but you must shield it from the harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can easily scorch the foliage. Insufficient light may cause the plant to lose its distinctive blue-green coloration, resulting in paler or more yellowish leaves.
Maintaining a consistent temperature is important, with a preferred range between 65°F and 85°F. Temperatures below 55°F can cause damage, so protect the plant from cold drafts near exterior doors or poorly insulated windows. High humidity (ideally 60% to 70%) helps prevent brown leaf tips. Increase ambient moisture by using a pebble tray, grouping the plant with other houseplants, or running a dedicated room humidifier.
Watering and Nutrient Needs
The consistent watering schedule is a delicate part of care, as the plant prefers the soil to remain evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top one or two inches of soil to dry out between waterings before saturating the soil thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, but allowing the soil to dry out completely can also result in dry, crispy leaf edges.
This plant is particularly sensitive to the mineral content in tap water, especially fluoride, which can cause leaf tips and edges to turn brown. To mitigate this issue, consider using filtered water, distilled water, or collected rainwater for irrigation. Allowing tap water to sit out overnight can help reduce chlorine content, although it will not remove fluoride.
During the active growing season, the plant benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, once a month. Stop feeding entirely in the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Soil Mix and Repotting Guidelines
The ideal soil for Cordyline glauca must be rich in organic matter and highly porous to ensure good drainage. A slightly acidic pH range (6.0 to 6.5) is recommended, as this can help reduce the plant’s absorption of fluoride present in the water. Combine standard houseplant soil with amendments like perlite, pumice, or horticultural grit to improve aeration and prevent compaction.
Repotting is infrequent, as this species performs best when slightly root-bound. Repot the plant every two to three years, or when roots emerge from the drainage holes. Select a container that is only one size larger than the current one, which helps prevent the soil from remaining soggy. Since Cordyline glauca develops a deep taproot, choosing a pot with sufficient depth is beneficial for its long-term health.
Identifying and Treating Common Issues
The browning of leaf tips, often called “tipping,” is a frequent visual problem, usually a sign of low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral accumulation from tap water. Using filtered water and increasing the humidity around the plant are the most effective non-chemical solutions. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, especially if paired with a mushy stem, which is a symptom of root rot.
While generally resistant, the plant can be targeted by common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are often present in dry conditions, causing fine webbing and stippling on the leaves, and can be deterred by regular misting. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses on stems and leaf undersides. For small infestations, wipe the pests off the leaves using a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol or treat the affected areas with a horticultural product like neem oil.