Diagnosing Cordyline australis Leaf Burn in Hot Climates

Too Much Water, Not Too Little

Cordyline australis (cabbage tree) is native to New Zealand and handles heat well—but it hates wet feet. In Chico, CA’s 90–100°F summers, daily drip irrigation kept the soil constantly moist, causing root rot and leaf scorch.

Fix It

• Cut back watering: let the top 2–3 inches of soil dry between waterings.
• Ensure pots drain freely; empty saucers.
• Full sun is fine; heat isn’t the issue.

Recovery

Trim dead leaves. New growth will emerge once roots recover. Cordyline is tough—given drainage, it bounces back.