(I probably asked my original question in the wrong place.)
We have a tall, well established cordyline at the back of a bed of shrubs. Can I leave the fallen dead leaves on the ground and wait for them to rot & break down, or should I remove them? Thank you.

hi,
I think this is a great place for your question.
I think it's your preference. DO you like natural, or clean and tidy? Or do they form a natural looking mulch like layer that you enjoy?
The leaves may add a tiny amount of organic content over time, which is probably good.

Thank you Sally for your reply. You can't actually see the long dead leaves from the garden. It's only when I go round the back of the bed against the fence. I think I was more concerned that they might suffocate the base of the shrubs at the front, which are also well established.

They take a really long time to break down. I compost almost everything, but these are just too slow. They go to the municipal compost bin.

Thank you Hortica for replying.