Broad-leaf Palm-lily
Cordyline petiolaris

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A slender plant. It grows 1.5-5 m high and spreads 1-2.2 m wide. The stems can form clumps. The stems are woody and fibrous. The leaves are broad. They are sword shaped and 60 cm long. They are on 25 cm long rolled leaf stalks. The flowers are purple and hang in strings. The fruit are shiny bright red berries.

There are 15-20 Cordyline species. Also put in the family Laxmanniaceae.

Where it is found

It grows in temperate to tropical places. It needs well drained soil. It is best with light shade. It suits hardiness zones 10-12. Arboretum Tasmania.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia (country/location of origin), Côte d'Ivoire, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, SE Asia, Tasmania, West Africa

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Fruit, heart, rhizome, root

How it is grown

The fruit can be planted or the flesh removed then the seeds planted. Seeds usually germinate in 2-4 weeks. Plants can also be grown from stem cuttings or division of the root.

Its other names

Local names

Andong lili

Synonyms

Cordyline fruticosa; Cordyline terminalis var. petiolaris Domin;