How to Grow Cabbage Tree
iNaturalist
Cabbage Tree
Cordyline australis
treeCordyline australis, commonly known as Cabbage Tree, is a striking evergreen tree native to New Zealand with long, narrow, sword-like leaves that form dense clusters at branch tips. It produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers followed by small blue or white berries. This architectural plant is valued as an ornamental specimen in gardens and landscapes for its dramatic form and tropical appearance.
When should you plant Cabbage Tree in your zone?
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Example Cabbage Tree timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cabbage Tree
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Cabbage Tree
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Cabbage Tree dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; can survive in zone 9a with winter protection
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Get my Cabbage Tree timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 6-12 monthsYoung plant focusing on root development and establishment in new location
Water regularly (2-3 times weekly initially), provide stake support if needed, apply mulch, protect from strong winds
Vegetative Growth
1-4 yearsPlant develops characteristic sword-like leaves; lower leaves may drop naturally
Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer, prune lower leaves if desired, monitor for pests
Flowering
4-8 weeksPlant produces terminal panicles of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring to early summer
Maintain consistent watering, continue regular feeding, no deadheading necessary
Fruiting
2-3 monthsFlowers transition to small berries that ripen from white to blue or pale purple
Allow fruits to develop naturally; attracts birds; minimal intervention needed
Mature
Ongoing for 30+ yearsEstablished ornamental specimen with full branching structure and year-round visual interest
Light pruning to maintain shape, occasional removal of dead leaves, minimal fertilization needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil in early morning or late evening; prune affected branches; encourage beneficial insects
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with neem oil; improve air circulation
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Remove by hand or with rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs; spray with insecticidal soap
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Landscape Focal Point
OrnamentalCabbage Tree's distinctive architectural form makes it an excellent specimen plant for modern, Mediterranean, and tropical-style landscapes. Its dramatic silhouette provides year-round visual interest and contrasts beautifully with softer plantings. [source]
Bird Attractant
WildlifeThe fragrant flowers attract pollinators including bees and butterflies, while the berries provide food for native and migratory birds, making it valuable for wildlife gardens. [source]
Floral Arrangements
CraftThe striking leaves and flowering panicles are prized by florists and arrangement enthusiasts for cut flower work, adding height, texture, and tropical appeal to designs. [source]
Container Growing
HouseholdYoung Cabbage Trees are excellent container specimens for patios, courtyards, and tropical-themed gardens, providing movable architectural elements that can be brought indoors in colder climates. [source]
Traditional Plant Uses
MedicinalIn traditional Māori medicine, various Cordyline species have been used; modern research continues exploring potential bioactive compounds in the genus. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant—not typically harvested for food. Allow flowers to develop naturally for wildlife attraction. Seeds can be collected from mature berries in autumn for propagation. Cut foliage is sometimes used for floral arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Cabbage Tree' originates from the palm-like crown of leaves at the top, which resembles a cabbage head; it's actually not a true palm or cabbage at all.
- 🌱 Cordyline australis is the official floral emblem of the Auckland and Northland regions of New Zealand, deeply rooted in Māori culture where it's known as 'tī' or 'tī pore'.
- 🌱 The tree can live for 100+ years in optimal conditions and can reach heights of 20-30 feet, though many ornamental specimens are kept smaller through pruning.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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