Cordyline terminalis ‘Chocolate Queen' 4”

Cordyline fruticosa 'Chocolate Queen' (formerly sold as Cordyline terminalis) is a colorful tropical foliage plant native to the South Pacific and Southeast Asia. In its natural habitat, it grows in warm, humid forests where it receives filtered sunlight beneath taller vegetation. 'Chocolate Queen' is prized for its rich blend of chocolate-brown, burgundy, bronze, pink, and cream variegation. The colorful foliage creates a dramatic tropical display year-round, making it a favorite for collectors looking to add bold color and texture to their plant collection.

Place Cordyline 'Chocolate Queen' within 1–3 feet of an east-facing or south-facing window. Bright light helps maintain the vibrant variegation and rich coloration that make this cultivar so desirable. Under grow lights, use a full-spectrum bulb in the 5000K–6500K range. High-output lights should be positioned 8–12 inches above the foliage, while medium-strength lights work best at 10–14 inches. Insufficient light often causes the colors to fade, producing greener leaves with less contrast and slower growth.

Water when the root zone is approaching dryness, never on a schedule. A chopstick, moisture meter, or clear nursery pot will provide a much more accurate reading than checking only the soil surface. Plant in a chunky mix of equal parts succulent soil, coarse orchid bark, and perlite to promote healthy root development and airflow. Brown leaf tips can develop if the plant becomes too dry or is exposed to poor water quality, while yellowing lower leaves are often part of the normal aging process. Consistent moisture, warm temperatures, and strong light will produce the best color and overall growth.