Narrow-leaf palm-lily (Cordyline stricta, Ann. Wiener Mus. Naturgesch. 1: 162 (1836))

Family: Asparagaceae

Author: (Sims) Endl.

Bibliography: Ann. Wiener Mus. Naturgesch. 1: 162 (1836)

Year: 1836

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cordyline

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Queensland to NE. New South Wales

Description

The Narrow-leaf palm-lily, scientifically known as Cordyline stricta, is a fascinating perennial plant that boasts an elegant appearance with its narrow, elongated leaves. This plant is a member of the Asparagaceae family, a diverse group of flowering plants known for their hardy nature and striking forms. Cordyline stricta was first documented in the botanical literature in 1836, as noted in the Annals of the Vienna Museum of Natural History.

Native to the southeastern region of Queensland and extending to the northeastern areas of New South Wales in Australia, the Narrow-leaf palm-lily thrives in these subtropical and temperate climates. The natural habitat provides the ideal conditions for this palm-lily to flourish, featuring well-draining soils and a balance of sun and shade.

The plant’s slender and pointed leaves grow in clusters, creating a lush and tropical feel which makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardening. These leaves are a rich green, which can sometimes exhibit a subtle sheen, adding to the plant’s decorative appeal. Cordyline stricta is not just valued for its foliage—the plant also produces small, fragrant flowers that add another layer of beauty and charm. These flowers give way to berries that can attract various species of birds, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.

The versatility and resilience of the Narrow-leaf palm-lily make it a suitable choice for a variety of landscaping projects. It can be used as a striking feature plant in garden beds or as a lush, green backdrop in mixed plantings. Additionally, its ability to grow in containers makes it an excellent option for patios and indoor settings, where it can serve as a tall, structural element in plant arrangements.

The Narrow-leaf palm-lily’s durability extends to its relatively low maintenance requirements. It prefers a moist environment, but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Regular watering during prolonged dry spells will help maintain its lush foliage. While it generally prefers partial shade, it can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, provided it is shielded from the harshest midday sun.

In summary, Cordyline stricta is a versatile and attractive plant that brings a touch of the subtropics to any garden or indoor space. Its narrow, elegant leaves and ease of care make it a favorite among gardeners looking for a resilient yet visually appealing addition to their plant collections.

Common Names

Eng: narrow-leaf palm-lily
Swe: toppdracena
En: Narrow-leaf palm-lily, Narrow-leaved Palm Lily
Fi: Siroliljapuu
Sv: Toppdracena

Synonyms

• Taetsia stricta ((Sims) Standl.)
• Charlwoodia stricta ((Sims) Sweet)
• Cordyline stricta var. discolor (Wiegand)
• Cordyline stricta var. grandis (Wiegand)
• Terminalis stricta ((Sims) Kuntze)
• Dracaena stricta (Sims)
• Cordyline stricta var. erythrorachis (T.Moore ex J.Dix)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Marianas (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Oct 4, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2022 by Judy Sanders (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 5, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 29, 2019 by Julie Crazz (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Oct 25, 2020 by Penelope Frith (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2022 by H L (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 4, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 20, 2022 by James Dawson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 29, 2019 by Julie Crazz (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 27, 2022 by RIVER STONE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 20, 2022 by James Dawson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 5, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 13, 2022 by Owen Kaluza (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 7, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 14, 2021 by Rodrigo Pampin (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2021 by Kenneth Parker (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2022 by H L (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 22, 2021 by Pereira Jorge (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2766271)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:533649-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cordyline stricta (Sims) Endl.)

Specifications

Growth