Cordyline fruticosa 'Kiwi' – multicolored tropical foliage with vivid pink and lime streaks


Cordyline fruticosa 'Kiwi' is a vibrant, upright-growing cultivar with eye-catching variegation in green, cream, and blush-pink. The long, lance-shaped leaves are streaked and edged with vivid color that intensifies under bright light, giving the plant an energetic, tropical look. Its compact, symmetrical form makes it ideal for smaller spaces or as a pop of color in mixed foliage arrangements. Easy to maintain and rewarding in appearance, ‘Kiwi’ thrives with warmth, light, and steady care — no complicated routine required.


Foliage details & overall shape



  
Leaf shape: Narrow, sword-like leaves with pointed tips
  
Color: Striped mix of lime green, cream, and pink margins with reddish-pink midribs
  
Texture: Smooth, glossy surface with subtle arching
  
Growth habit: Upright rosette with layered foliage and tight spacing
  
Indoor size: Grows 50–80 cm tall and 40–60 cm wide


Habitat & cultivar origin


This colorful hybrid comes from Cordyline fruticosa, a tropical species native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. In the wild, these plants grow in filtered light under forest canopies with consistent warmth and humidity. ‘Kiwi’ is a compact ornamental cultivar bred for its intense color and controlled form, well suited to indoor life as long as it receives enough light and warmth.



  
Species origin: Southeast Asia and Pacific tropical forests
  
Growth type: Upright, self-supporting non-climber
  
Climate preference: Warm and humid, but adaptable indoors
  
Toxicity: Mildly toxic if ingested — not pet-safe
  
Lifespan: Long-lived with steady maintenance


Cordyline 'Kiwi' care guide



  
Light: Bright indirect light keeps colors vivid; avoid deep shade
  
Water: Let top 2–4 cm of soil dry before watering; never let it sit in soggy substrate
  
Humidity: Prefers 50–60% or higher; stable indoor humidity works fine
  
Temperature: Keep between 20–28 °C; avoid sudden cold exposure
  
Soil: Fast-draining tropical mix with bark, perlite, and organic matter
  
Repotting: Every 2 years or when pot becomes rootbound
  
Feeding: Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth
  
Propagation: Through stem cuttings or division of basal offsets
  
Hydroponics: Not ideal — prefers aerated substrate with moisture retention
  
Pruning: Remove yellowing or older leaves from the base to keep tidy


Common problems & how to fix them



  
Leaf tip browning: Often caused by dry air or inconsistent watering — adjust both
  
Color fading: Move to brighter location; pigment fades without light
  
Pest concerns: May attract spider mites or scale — treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap
  
Soft stem base: Root rot from poor drainage — repot into well-aerated mix
  
Drooping leaves: Common after underwatering or temperature drops — recover with warmth and regular care


Extra tips & display ideas


'Kiwi' adds a punch of color without overwhelming space. It works well in minimalist containers or bright ceramic pots to highlight its foliage patterns. Pair it with neutral or green-leafed plants to create contrast, or use it solo as a statement piece. Because of its manageable size and clean upright form, it suits sideboards, bright corners, or grouped tropical displays.


Etymology & cultivar context


“Cordyline” comes from the Greek word “kordyle,” meaning club, referring to the thick rootstock. “Fruticosa” means shrubby, describing its multi-stemmed, bush-like habit. The cultivar name ‘Kiwi’ reflects its vibrant green-pink coloration, reminiscent of tropical fruit tones, and its popularity in ornamental plant markets worldwide.


FAQs about Cordyline fruticosa 'Kiwi'



  
Is this plant high-maintenance?
Not at all — it’s easygoing as long as it gets light and warmth.
  
Can it grow in lower light?
It will survive, but the colors will dull — use bright filtered light for best results.
  
Does it grow quickly?
Moderate pace — expect steady growth, not rapid expansion.


Buy Cordyline 'Kiwi' now


Ready to add vibrant color and upright structure to your space? Order Cordyline fruticosa 'Kiwi' today and brighten your plant collection with its bold tropical style.