Cordyline australis ‘Charlie Boy’ – Burgundy and Pink Cabbage Tree

Cordyline australis ‘Charlie Boy’ is a striking evergreen ornamental plant admired for its dramatic, sword-shaped foliage in deep burgundy, bronze and purple, edged with vivid reddish-pink margins. The strong contrast between the dark leaves and bright pink edges makes this distinctive cultivar an eye-catching feature in contemporary gardens, patios, balconies and exotic plant collections.

Also known as the New Zealand cabbage tree or cabbage palm, Cordyline australis originates from New Zealand. The cultivar ‘Charlie Boy’ is particularly valued for its colourful foliage and upright, architectural growth habit. With maturity, it can develop a woody trunk and a palm-like silhouette. Established plants may also produce clusters of small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in summer. 

Why Choose Cordyline ‘Charlie Boy’?

• Distinctive foliage: Deep burgundy leaves with striking pink margins.
• Evergreen interest: Colourful foliage throughout the year in suitable growing conditions.
• Architectural growth: Adds height, structure and an exotic character to plant displays.
• Versatile use: Suitable for large containers, sheltered patios, balconies and garden borders.
• Relatively low maintenance: Requires no routine shaping; remove old or damaged leaves as needed.

At TOMs FLOWer CLUB, we appreciate plants with distinctive character and natural beauty. Our philosophy is simple: quality before quantity.

Care and Growing Conditions

Light: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. Good light helps maintain the intensity of the foliage colours.

Watering: Water regularly during active growth, but allow excess water to drain freely. Keep the substrate from becoming waterlogged and avoid prolonged dryness during hot weather.

Substrate: Use a fertile, well-draining growing medium. Good drainage is especially important when growing Cordyline in a container.

Outdoor growing: During the warmer months, this Cordyline makes an attractive feature on a sunny or partially shaded terrace or balcony. Acclimatise it gradually when moving it outdoors.

Winter care: ‘Charlie Boy’ is more cold-tolerant than many tropical foliage plants, but its hardiness depends on conditions. In Switzerland, protect container-grown plants from severe frost and cold, wet weather. A sheltered position and well-drained substrate improve its chances of overwintering successfully.

Pruning: Regular pruning is generally unnecessary. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain an attractive appearance.

Plant for Sale at TOMs FLOWer CLUB

Cordyline australis ‘Charlie Boy’ is an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts looking for a colourful, evergreen architectural plant with dramatic burgundy and pink foliage.

Whether displayed in a decorative container or incorporated into a sheltered garden setting, this distinctive Cordyline adds bold colour and a subtropical atmosphere.

Discover the character of Cordyline ‘Charlie Boy’ at TOMs FLOWer CLUB, where distinctive plants and quality come first.

You will receive a fully established plant of the displayed size.