- **Type**: Tropical evergreen perennial

- **Height**: 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) indoors; up to 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) outdoors in ideal conditions

- **Width**: 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm)

- **Growth Habit**: Upright, multi-stemmed, forming a rosette of leaves atop slender stalks

- **Foliage**:

- Long, arching, sword-shaped leaves, 1 to 2 feet long (30 to 60 cm), 4 to 6 inches wide (10 to 15 cm)

- Glossy, deep burgundy to near-black with a subtle purple sheen

- Evergreen, vibrant year-round in suitable climates

- **Flowers**:

- Rare indoors; small, pink to purple blooms on panicles up to 1 foot (30 cm) long

- Appear sporadically in warm outdoor conditions, not a primary feature

- **Fruit**:

- Small, red to black berries, rarely produced indoors

- Not ornamentally significant

- **Light**: Bright, indirect light indoors; partial shade to full sun outdoors (filtered sun enhances color)

- **Soil**:

- Well-drained, fertile; prefers a mix with loam, peat, and sand

- Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0)

- **Watering**: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, allow top inch to dry indoors

- **Hardiness**: USDA Zones 10 to 12 (30°F or -1°C; grown as a houseplant or patio plant elsewhere)

- **Humidity**: High (50-70%); thrives with misting or a humidifier indoors

- **Wildlife**: Attracts few pollinators; toxic to pets if ingested (contains saponins)

- **Care**:

- Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid mix (e.g., 10-10-10), diluted

- Prune dead or yellowing leaves at the base to maintain appearance

- Repot every 1-2 years indoors if rootbound

- **Pests/Diseases**:

- May attract spider mites, mealybugs, or scale indoors

- Susceptible to root rot in overwatered or poorly drained soil

- **Uses**: Indoor houseplant, patio container, tropical garden accent, or border plant

- **Growth Rate**: Moderate; grows steadily with proper care

- **Special Features**:

- Dramatic, dark foliage adds bold contrast to plantings

- Traditionally used in Hawaiian culture for food, medicine, and spiritual purposes

- Air-purifying qualities indoors

The Black Magic Cordyline’s striking, near-black leaves bring a tropical, gothic elegance to indoor spaces or outdoor gardens, thriving with moderate care and humidity. Let me know if you’d like more care tips or styling suggestions!