Cordyline Renegade
Cordyline ‘Renegade’
Common Names: Renegade Cabbage Tree, Cordyline Renegade
Family: Asparagaceae
Origin: New Zealand hybrid cultivar
Plant Type: Evergreen Architectural Shrub
Overview:
Cordyline ‘Renegade’ is a bold, architectural New Zealand native cultivar prized for its dramatic deep burgundy to chocolate-purple foliage. With its upright, strap-like leaves and strong vertical form, this striking cabbage tree selection creates instant contrast in modern gardens, coastal landscapes, and feature plantings. Tough and adaptable, it performs well across a wide range of NZ conditions.
Key Features:
Foliage: Long, sword-like leaves in rich dark burgundy to near-black tones; colour intensifies in full sun. Evergreen year-round.
Flowers / Fruit: Creamy-white fragrant flower panicles may appear on mature plants in summer, followed by small berries.
Form & Habit: Upright, clumping, architectural form with strong vertical presence.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides nectar for native insects when flowering and adds strong structural contrast to native plantings.
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 1.5–2.5m |
| Spread | 1–1.5m |
| Form | Upright, clumping |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade (best colour in full sun) |
| Water | Moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soils; tolerant of coastal and windy sites |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Tolerates light to moderate frost |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
-
Feature plant in modern or tropical-style gardens
-
Mass planting for bold colour contrast
-
Container planting for decks and courtyards
-
Coastal and wind-exposed gardens
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Remove old leaves as required; cut back spent flower stems.
Watering: Regular watering during establishment; minimal once established.
Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring.
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy; ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Additional Tips:
Plant in full sun for the deepest foliage colour. Excellent paired with silver foliage plants, grasses, or lighter green natives for dramatic contrast.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Cordyline species are commonly known as cabbage trees and have long been valued in Māori culture for their fibre, food, and medicinal uses.
Why Choose Cordyline ‘Renegade’?
For bold foliage colour, year-round structure, and easy-care resilience, Cordyline ‘Renegade’ delivers striking architectural impact in almost any New Zealand garden.
Pot Size: These are our large size in 9cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
