Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Cordyline australis 'Renegade'
Renegade Giant Dracaena
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Light purple
- Foliage color
- Deep purple to nearly black
- Bloom time
- Late spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Regular watering; prefers rich, well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low; remove dead leaves to maintain appearance
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 8b to 10b
- Wildlife
- Fragrant flowers may attract pollinators
About this plant
Cordyline australis 'Renegade' is a cultivar originating from New Zealand, known for its deep purple to nearly black, arching, sword-like leaves. In late spring, it produces small, fragrant, pale purple flowers, adding to its ornamental appeal.
This variety has a compact, clump-forming habit and exceptionally dark foliage, providing a bold contrast in garden landscapes or container plantings. The rich, almost black leaves create a dramatic focal point, offering year-round interest and a modern, architectural element to any setting.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores
Design tip
Spring bloom is its headline moment, and it reads best in a group rather than as a single plant. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
