PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes deepest burgundy foliage color, while partial shade prevents leaf scorch in hot inland climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to light frosts down to -5°C; prefers temperate to warm climates and benefits from shelter during extreme cold snaps
Characteristics
- Leaf: Long, sword-shaped burgundy-red leaves arranged in dense rosettes at stem tips
- Flower: Clusters of small, fragrant white or pale lilac flowers on tall panicles
- Stem: Slender, woody trunk with peeling brown bark as it matures
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated; increase watering frequency during prolonged hot, dry periods
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to support natural dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute the infusion 1:20 before applying as a root drench to prevent nutrient burnPruning
- Remove brown, dead leaves from the base of rosettes to maintain a tidy appearance
- Trim back spent flower panicles after blooming to redirect energy to new foliage growth
- Cut back overgrown stems in early spring to encourage compact, bushy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience in New Zealand's native coastal and mountain landscapes
Usage: Ornamental garden specimen, indoor container plant, and coastal windbreak
