Cabbage Palm

Cabbage Palm Overview

Cordyline australis is a usually single-stemmed, architectural, evergreen tree with several stout branches arising from the crown, as it matures. Its tufted form is produced from long, leathery, sword-shaped foliage and in summer, it produces large hanging panicles of small, fragrant, cream flowers. Many cultivars with varying characteristics and different coloured leaves are widely available. Originating from New Zealand, Cordyline australis is also known by the names Cabbage Palm or Cabbage Tree, amongst others. It is very popular as a garden plant due to its eye-catching architectural palm-like qualities - especially in temperate climates! It is also low maintenance and drought resistant. It is increasingly seen - particularly near the coast - in southern parts of the UK, and has earned an RHS Garden of Merit Award. It is becoming increasingly popular in city and urban gardens, as well as tropical and Mediterranean planting schemes. Cordyline australis likes a sheltered spot in full sun or partial shade and is tolerant of most soils, as long as it is well-drained. So if you like the idea of a tropical-looking plant in your garden and can give it the treatment it needs to thrive, this may well be the plant you are looking for!