Kī or Red ti leaf

Description:

The Cordyline fruticosa is a member of the family Agavaceae. The color of the red ti ranges from pink to a fluorescent red color, or even a burgundy color. The red varieties of the Cordyline fruticosa become more intense when exposed to sunlight, darkening the plant and giving it a much darker hue. The leaves range at one to two feet in length and three to four inches in width, slightly smaller than the green variety of ti leaf. The leaves have a glossy sheen, and are often used for culinary preparations even till this day, although less than the green variety of ti leaves. Ti leaves are not used for food consumption, but instead used in cooking and decorative purposes. For example, it could be used as a wrap for food, or as plates for appetizers.

Habitat:

This plant was found in the Waianae district.

Notes:

Cordyline fruticosa have been derived and is native to South East Asia and the Pacific Islands, for this plant flourishes is particularly warm tropical climates. In conditions of ample warmth and when provided with an ideal amount of irrigation, the red ti leaf can grow up to 7 feet tall. Today, this plant can be found in many tropical regions throughout the world.