How to Grow Cordyline australis
iNaturalist
Cordyline australis
Cordyline australis
shrubCordyline australis, commonly known as cabbage tree or New Zealand cabbage palm, is a tropical to subtropical evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. It features long, sword-like green or variegated leaves that form a dramatic focal point in gardens and containers. When mature, it produces fragrant white flowers followed by small blue-black berries.
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Example Cordyline australis timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cordyline australis
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 Cordyline australis
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; can be grown in zone 9a with protection
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Get my Cordyline australis timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant with small rosette of sword-like leaves, typically 12-24 inches tall
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Vegetative Growth
1-3 yearsPlant develops multiple leaf rosettes and increases in height; foliage becomes dense and more mature in appearance
Water regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Branching & Maturation
1-2 yearsStem develops characteristic branches with leaf rosettes at branch tips; plant reaches 6-15 feet depending on variety
Fertilize lightly. Prune lower leaves if desired for tropical effect. Monitor for pests and disease. Reduce fertilizer in fall.
Flowering
4-8 weeksMature plants produce terminal panicles of small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring to summer
Flowering indicates plant is well-established. Do not prune flower panicles if berries are desired. Continue regular watering.
Fruit & Seed
2-3 monthsSmall blue-black berries develop following pollination; seeds are viable and can be collected for propagation
Allow berries to remain on plant to mature fully. Collect seeds if propagation is desired. Remove spent flower stems if not collecting seed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity by misting foliage; ensure adequate watering
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations
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Scrape off manually or spray with horticultural oil; repeat treatment every 7-10 days if necessary
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
Uses
Tropical Landscape Architecture
OrnamentalCordyline australis is a premier architectural plant used to create tropical and subtropical garden focal points, adding height, texture, and drama to mixed borders and containers. Its distinctive silhouette works well in Mediterranean, contemporary, and Zen-inspired garden designs. [source]
Bird Food & Habitat
WildlifeThe blue-black berries attract native birds and other wildlife for food, while the dense foliage provides shelter and nesting habitat in subtropical and tropical regions. This makes it valuable for wildlife-friendly gardens and restoration projects. [source]
Container & Indoor Growing
HouseholdCordyline australis thrives in large containers on patios, decks, and bright indoor spaces (near south-facing windows), making it ideal for creating tropical ambiance in cooler climates. Containerized plants can be moved indoors during cold months in zone 8-9 areas. [source]
Historical Food Plant
CulinaryThe Maori people of New Zealand traditionally harvested the terminal bud (cabbage) and used it as a food source, which is the origin of the common name 'cabbage tree.' While not commonly eaten today, it represents indigenous plant knowledge. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Greenery
CraftLong, dramatic leaves are used in tropical and modern floral arrangements, adding height and linear interest to bouquets and installations. The foliage lasts well in water and is frequently used by professional florists. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest seeds from mature blue-black berries in late summer to fall; collect when berries are fully dark and soft. For propagation, clean seeds and sow immediately or store in cool, dry conditions. Foliage can be harvested year-round for floral arrangements by cutting selected outer leaves at the base.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cordyline australis is the national tree of New Zealand (along with being culturally important to the Maori people), who called it 'tī' or 'ti'.
- 🌱 The plant can take 5-8 years to flower from seed and may reach heights of 30-40 feet in ideal tropical conditions, though it is typically much smaller when cultivated in gardens.
- 🌱 There are over 150 Cordyline species worldwide, but C. australis and its cultivars are among the most cold-hardy and widely cultivated in temperate regions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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