Seed Availability

Seeds are not available for the Ti. Please visit our seed store to view current selections. Seeds were last available in January 2014.

Description

A woody perennial growing to 4-6ft, but as high as 10-12ft. Its best known feature are its large, colorful leaves which grow from the stem tips in a circular, star-like pattern.

Hardiness

Foliage is hardy to about 32F. Roots are hardy to 15-20F and while foliage may die, the plant will regrow when the weather warms. They also do nicely as a houseplant.

Growing Environment

Plants enjoy regular water and warm temperatures. Grow in shade, particularly in warmer climates. Protect from low humidity or dry winds. They do nicely in containers.

Propagation

By seeds, by root or stem cuttings.

Uses

Ti is commonly grown as an ornamental and their are numerous varieties with varying shade of leaf color. In Polynesia, the starchy rhizomes are eaten and have a sweetish flavor. The leaves have a variety of uses, most notably in clothing such as the traditional Hawaiian hula skirt. The plants also have Polynesian lore surrounding them as they are thought to bring good luck and were once used in a number of native rituals.

Native Range

Native to Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, Northern Australia and some western South Pacific islands. Naturalized throughout the South Pacific, New Zealand and some other tropical areas.

Additional Pictures

Related Species

Liliaceae
	Asparagus densiflorus Asparagus Fern		Cordyline terminalis Ti