The red ti plant, Cordyline fruticosa, is an evergreen shrub and member of the Agavaceae family. It is most prominently found in the Hawaiian Islands where it is used in culinary preparations as well as for landscape and floral ornamental purposes.

Red ti leaves, pronounced tea, range from pink to fluorescent red to a deep rich burgundy and may have random hints of orange and yellow. The color of most red varieties will become more intense when exposed to sunshine, taking on a darker and more vibrant red hue. Leaves have a glossy sheen and are slightly smaller than the green variety ti leaf at approximately one to two feet in length and three to four inches in width.

Serving Ideas

Ti leaves are too tough for consumption but work perfectly for decorative and food preparation purposes. Use in lieu of parchment paper when cooking fish or meats, as a wrap for foods to be grilled, steamed or baked. Fold leaves into pockets and stuff with rice and veggies to be cooked. Form leaves into boat shapes or lay flat on platters and use for serving appetizers and salads.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

Leafy food wraps such as the ti leaf have long been a staple in Hawaiian and Polynesian culture where they have been used not only for their culinary attributes but as a material for use in clothing, in religious ceremonies and medicinally as well.

Geography/History

Believed to be native to South East Asia and the Pacific Islands the red ti plant thrives in warm tropical climates. In ideal conditions where ample warmth and irrigation is provided the ti plant can quickly grow over seven feet tall. Today the ti plant can be found growing in tropical regions throughout the world as well as in controlled situations such as green houses and arboretums.

Seasons/Availability

Red ti leaves are available year round.