Cabbage tree
Cordyline australis · Asparagaceae
📷 Kahuroa · Public domain
⚠️ Chiens, chats et enfants : feuilles contiennent saponines. Ingestion provoque irritation digestive et troubles gastriques.
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around cabbage tree and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Cordyline australis
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Adult height
- Up to 4 m
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (−5 to −10 °C depending on varieties)
- Origin
- New Zealand
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Cordyline australis fears winter moisture more than cold. In cold regions, plant it in a winter pot or on a very raised bed.
The common mistake
Allowing water to stagnate at the base in winter.
The pro's trick
In borderline zones, wrap the heart (the crown at the top) in frost cloth in November.
Care
Light exposure
Your Cordyline australis prefers a sunny location to develop beautiful colored foliage and a compact shape. It tolerates partial shade, but direct sun guarantees the best color tones. In very hot climates, slight afternoon shading can prevent leaf scorch.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Avoid stagnant water which promotes root rot.
Soil and drainage
Well-draining soil is essential: use a rich mixture of potting soil and organic matter, supplemented with perlite or coarse sand. Cordyline tolerates poor soils but fears waterlogging. In containers, use potting soil for Mediterranean plants or cacti.
Fertilizer and nutrition
Apply balanced or potassium-rich fertilizer once or twice a month during the growing season (March to September). Reduce or stop feeding in winter. A spring application of compost or organic matter on the surface boosts vigor.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove dry or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a neat shape. Light spring pruning encourages branching and foliage density. You can prune the top to control height or multiply the main stems.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, especially in dry air; mist regularly with water or clean the leaves. Excessive moisture promotes rot: ensure good ventilation and check drainage. Widespread yellowing foliage often signals overwatering.
Did you know?
In New Zealand, Cordyline australis bears the Maori name "ti" and has symbolized a sacred tree with protective properties for centuries. Its fragrant white flowers attract nesting birds, and Maori people once harvested its edible roots; today, it remains an iconic element of New Zealand's landscape heritage.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.