Fact Sheet

We all know that plants are dynamic, living things, and because we understand so much about our own plants (we carry out trials around the world) we appreciate the subtle differences regarding their growth and habit.

Which is why it’s worthwhile visiting the section of our site which gives you local information – which plants are available; when it’s best to plant, prune and feed them; tips and so on. It’s all here to help you enjoy them more.

New for 2008: With its glossy mahogany/burgundy leaves, compact bushy form and cascading habit, Festival Grass™, the dramatic new cordyline from Anthony Tesselaar Plants, introduces something totally new and desirable to the summer garden, landscape and container plantings. The only basal branching cordyline available, Festival Grass' long strappy leaves cascade to create a fountain effect, swaying in the slightest of breezes to add movement to the garden. Hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11. In colder areas, it is an option to keep Festival Grass indoors overwinter as a houseplant to gain size season by season, sustaining it for future summer garden use. Festival Grass does quite well indoors, maintaining its glossy look and cascading form, even in winter’s lower light.

Rich burgundy foliage that forms a stunning clump. Even perfect in pots as it is a low water usage plant.

Introduction

One of the most remarkable new garden plants available. Color, form and habit all go to ensure that this plant is one of the most asked for new plants available. Striking burgundy strap-like leaves help make it stand out in any garden, patio and mixed container. Its cascading foliage makes Festival Grass® a real winner.

Cordyline species are indigenous to Australia, New Zealand and the western Pacific region. They are normally small trees or palm-like evergreen shrubs. Festival Grass® is different. It is basal branching, it forms multiple short stems spreading out from the base of the plant to create a sturdy low-growing grass plant, no more than three feet high. Its long strappy leaves cascade to create a fountain effect that is highly prized in garden and container plantings. Festival Grass® is the only basal-branching cordyline on the market today.

Festival Grass® combines the rugged easy-care attributes of its cordyline cousins with an unusual mix of shiny dark color, compact bushy form, short stems and cascading grass-like leaves. In late Spring and Summer, Festival Grass® also features small, star-shaped blush pink flowers.

Festival Grass® grows quickly, forming large clumps of stunning foliage. They are ideal when planted out on banks, borders or municipal plantings. These low-maintenance plants will perform and provide a stunning show.

Key Features

Stunning shiny ruby/burgundy foliage adds interesting color
Great feature plant
Low maintenance and easy care
Compact, no stems, grows from base to 3 feet in height
For gardens and landscapes plus larger patio pots
Grows well in most soil types

Suggested Uses

Landscaping, Commercial or Home garden

Growth Habit

Clump forming dwarf habit.

Flower Size

Small, star-shaped flowers.

Flower Attributes

Inflorescence of hundreds of flowers

Mature Height

Grows to 3 feet tall, but cascading habit reduces overall height.

Mature Width

Spreading foliage to 4 feet wide, with a basal clump of 18 inches.

Spacing

Plant 24 inches apart.

Hardiness

Will survive moderate frost and is hardy in zones 8b – 11.

Flowering Period

Late Spring & Summer.

Flower Color

Blush pink

Flower RHS

RHS 85D

Fragrance

Jasmine-like fragrance.

Foliage

Shiny Ruby/Burgundy, long strappy leaves.

Pruning/Pinching

Remove old leaves as required.

Temperature

Cordylines perform best in the range of 72 - 85°F.

Light Needs

Full sun or partial shade.

Soil Needs

Tolerates a range of soils, though will perform best in a well drained soil containing organic matter.

Water Needs

Low to moderate water requirement once established. Water thoroughly when planting during hot weather and continue until established.

Fertilizer

Add controlled release fertilizer in Spring.

Disease Tolerance

No major disease susceptibility.

Pest Issues

No major pest susceptibility.

Special Care

Protect from severe frosts.

Parentage

Cordyline australis, Cordyline pumilio and Cordyline banksii hybrid.