Cordyline fruticosa 'Hot Pepper'
 
Common Names Hot Pepper Ti Plant, Red Sensation Ti, Hawaiian Good Luck Plant
 
Zones 10B–12
Cordyline fruticosa 'Hot Pepper' is a fiery tropical cultivar prized for its bold, glossy foliage in deep red tones edged with green. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, this upright shrub adds dramatic color and vertical interest to shaded gardens, patio containers, and interiorscapes. Its compact form and vivid hues make it a standout in tropical compositions and ceremonial plantings.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, clumping; moderate growth rate
Height: Typically 3–4 ft; up to 6 ft in ideal conditions
Trunk: Woody cane; often multi-stemmed
Leaves: Lanceolate; rich red with green margins; 12–20 in. long
Petiole: Short; leaf bases clasp stem
Inflorescence: Small pink to lavender flowers on panicles; seasonal outdoors
Fruit: Small red berries may follow flowering
Ecology: Cultivar of C. fruticosa; selected for intense red foliage and compact form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to partial shade; tolerates filtered sun
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top inch to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; slightly acidic pH (6.0–6.5) preferred
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from cold drafts
Humidity: Moderate to high; misting or pebble trays recommended indoors
Propagation: By stem cuttings or division
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold, salt, and fluoride; avoid overwatering
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical borders, patio containers, and shaded interiors. Pairs well with Alpinia 'Red Torch', Calathea 'Dottie', and Colocasia 'Black Stem' for high-contrast tropical compositions.