Cordyline australis 'Southern Splendour'

When planting in pots, use a loam based compost, such as John Innes No.2 mixed with potting grit, upgrading to John Innes No.3 as the plant grows. In severe winter weather, protect from frost and wind damage by tying up the foliage and wrapping in bubble wrap or a horticultural fleece, ensuring it's removed promptly, when conditions improve, to prevent rot.

Feed monthly during the growing season with a liquid fertiliser from spring to late summer, and water regularly, especially for container-grown plants, even though mature cordylines are drought-tolerant.

Remove damaged foliage as needed, and in colder regions, move potted plants to a sheltered spot or cover outdoor plants with fleece. In spring, once new growth appears and frost risk has passed, prune frost-damaged branches just above emerging shoots for a tidy, rejuvenated look.