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
Scientific Name | Cordyline australis |
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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.
City | Climate Suitability |
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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 |
Cabbage Tree is remarkably adaptable to different soil conditions:
Cabbage Trees are sun-lovers that perform best with:
Once established, Cabbage Trees are drought-tolerant:
Cabbage Trees generally need minimal pruning:
Always use clean, sharp tools for pruning to minimize the risk of disease. The cut stem often branches, creating a more bushy appearance.
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.
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.
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.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.