Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis)
Cordyline australis, also known as the cabbage tree or tī kōuka, is a distinctive and iconic New Zealand plant with long, sword-shaped leaves and tall flowering spikes. It is valued for its resilience and cultural significance. Learn more about native trees
Image credit: Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) showing its distinctive crown of leaves. Image by Phil Bendle [CC BY-NC-ND 3.0], via Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Cordyline australis |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 20 m (in the wild); 8–12 m in gardens |
| Spread | 3–6 m (broad, multi-branched crown) |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Light | Full sun (best form and flowering) |
| Frost Tolerance | High (tolerates moderate to severe frost) |
| Salt Tolerance | High (excellent coastal/salt wind tolerance) |
| Growth Rate | Fast (especially in open, sunny sites) |
| Lifespan | Very long-lived (hundreds of years possible) |
The Cabbage Tree is incredibly adaptable and grows throughout New Zealand from coastal areas to lower mountain areas up to about 1000m. It is tolerant of a wide range of conditions, from hot and dry to cold and wet.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Moderate |
Soil Requirements
Cabbage Tree is remarkably adaptable to different soil conditions:
- Tolerates a wide range of soil types from clay to sandy
- Prefers well-draining soils but can handle occasional waterlogging
- Thrives in moderately fertile soils but will grow in poor soils too
- Can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH
- Handles coastal conditions including salt spray
Light Requirements
Cabbage Trees are sun-lovers that perform best with:
- Full sun for optimal growth and form
- Can tolerate partial shade but may develop a leggier form
- At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal
- Northern or eastern exposures work well in garden settings
Water Requirements
Once established, Cabbage Trees are drought-tolerant:
- Moderate watering during establishment (first 1-2 years)
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Can handle periods of soil saturation
- Reduce watering in winter when growth slows
- Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and crown rot
Traditional Uses
- The leaves of Cordyline australis were used by Māori for weaving, rope, and textiles.
- The roots were cooked and eaten as a carbohydrate source.
- Used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
Modern Uses
- Popular as a striking specimen tree in gardens and parks.
- Used for shelterbelts and erosion control.
- Valued for its architectural form and resilience.
Spring
- New growth begins
- Apply a balanced fertilizer if desired (though not usually necessary)
- A good time to plant new specimens or divide offsets
- Monitor for new pest activity
Summer
- Flowering typically occurs in early summer
- Water young trees during extended dry periods
- Look out for infestations of cabbage tree moth caterpillars
- No pruning needed during the growing season
Autumn
- White or cream berries develop and ripen
- Natural leaf shedding occurs (normal part of growth cycle)
- Good time for planting new specimens
- Clean up fallen leaves if desired
Winter
- Generally dormant with minimal growth
- No special winter protection needed in most of New Zealand
- Suitable time for pruning if needed
- Fallen leaves can be left as mulch or removed for tidiness
Cabbage Trees generally need minimal pruning:
- Remove dead, damaged or diseased branches at any time
- To create a multi-trunked specimen, cut the main stem to encourage branching
- Fallen leaves can be removed for a tidier appearance, or left for a more natural look
- If necessary, lower branches can be removed to create clearance underneath
- Major pruning is best done in late winter to early spring
Always use clean, sharp tools for pruning to minimize the risk of disease. The cut stem often branches, creating a more bushy appearance.
Planting Guide
- Choose a sunny or partially shaded site with well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
- Plant at the same depth as in the pot.
- Backfill and firm gently.
- Water well after planting.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Propagation
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings. Seeds should be cleaned and sown in a well-draining mix, with germination taking several weeks. Stem cuttings root readily if kept moist and warm. Young plants should be protected from frost and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting.
Cultural History
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) is highly significant in Māori culture. The roots and young shoots were a traditional food source, and the leaves were used for weaving and rope-making. The tree features in many Māori legends and is a symbol of resilience in New Zealand landscapes.
Pests & Diseases
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) can be affected by the cabbage tree moth, scale insects, and root rot in poorly drained soils. Good drainage and regular monitoring help prevent most problems. Remove dead leaves to reduce pest habitat.
To create a dramatic nighttime feature, position outdoor lighting to shine upward through the crown of your Cabbage Tree. The architectural form creates stunning shadows and silhouettes, especially effective against a wall or fence. This works particularly well with multi-trunked specimens that create complex patterns of light and shadow.
Cultural Significance
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.