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Plant Profiles / Cabbage tree
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Cabbage tree
Cordyline australis · Ti kouka
A spiky, palm-like plant with sword leaves in green, bronze or burgundy. Tough and architectural.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Moderate.
Humidity
Adaptable
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-8–38°C (18–100°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
1–3 m in pots.
Soil
Free-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Low risk.
About this plant
From New Zealand. Handles wind, frost and dry spells.
Best spots
Exposed balconies and modern pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Cordyline australis |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Origin | New Zealand |
| Plant type | Tree-like |
| Mature size | 1–3 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Sword leaves |
| Toxicity | Low |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Tidy
Active growthTidy
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown lower leaves | Normal. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Leaf spot | Remove. |
| Green | Shade. |
| Scale | Oil. |
Common questions
Wind?
Yes.
Pets?
Low risk.
Frost?
Yes.
Pots?
Yes.
