Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Cordyline australis 'Torbay Dazzler'
Torbay Dazzler Giant Dracaena
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 15 to 20 feet
- Width
- 3 to 5 feet
- Flower color
- White
- Foliage color
- Long, narrow green leaves with creamy yellow margins
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; remove dead leaves to maintain appearance
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 9a to 11
- Wildlife
- Fragrant flowers may attract pollinators
About this plant
Cordyline australis 'Torbay Dazzler' is an evergreen, palm-like tree native to New Zealand, known for its dramatic, variegated foliage. It features long, sword-shaped leaves with bold cream stripes running along the center and edges, accented by subtle green tones. In summer, mature plants produce clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, adding seasonal interest.
The arching leaves form a fountain-like shape, giving the plant a strong architectural presence. The crisp variegation adds a bright, luminous quality to garden borders, containers, or coastal landscapes, offering year-round visual appeal.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns
Design tip
The early flowers arrive when the garden is still waking up, so give it a spot you pass often in spring. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
