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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Cordyline australis 'Renegade'

Renegade Giant Dracaena

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Regular watering; prefers rich, well-drained soil

Bloom time

Late spring

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)