Dr. Brown Ti is a popular low maintenance and easy to grow plant. It provides beautiful bright color and height to your garden. It is used best when placed in the back of the landscape as it will get taller than most shrubs and also does well in containers. It grows best in full-partial shade and well-draining soil.
How to care for Dr. Brown Ti
Light. Grows well in partial to full shade. If moving it into more sun, do it gradually over several days to weeks to avoid sunburn.
Water. Water while it establishes. It is only moderately drought tolerant, so water during dry spells, but never keep the soil soggy.
Soil and feeding. It handles slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil if it drains well. Feed a few times a year to keep leaf color strong.
Size. Grows to about 5 ft and 2–4 ft wide. Old plants can reach 10 ft. Space plants about 3 ft apart.
Problems to watch. Mealybugs and mites; treat with Insecticidal Soap following the label. Nematodes can be a problem. Burned leaf tips and edges point to fluoride.
Good to know. Not salt tolerant. It does best in zone 10 and is sensitive to cold. It is toxic to dogs and cats, and the sap can irritate skin.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS FPS141: Cordyline fruticosa, Ti Plant · UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County: I like your ti! · NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Cordyline fruticosa
