Cabbage Tree
Cordyline australis
Red Star
About this plant
Cordyline australis, commonly known as the Cabbage Tree, is a tall, slender evergreen with long, sword-shaped leaves that often have a reddish tint, especially in the 'Red Star' cultivar. It is native to New Zealand and is popular in gardens for its tropical appearance and architectural form. The plant produces small, fragrant white flowers in large clusters during summer, followed by small berries. It is often used as an ornamental tree or large shrub in landscapes and can add height and color contrast.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cordyline
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Higher classification
- Asparagales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- New Zealand
- Distribution
- Native to New Zealand; widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide including parts of Europe, North America, and Australia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 8-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season but allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause leaf burn.
Cordyline australis is a tough and adaptable plant that grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Overwatering can cause root problems, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings. It requires minimal maintenance and occasional pruning to remove dead leaves.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Long, sword-shaped leaves with red edges (in some cultivars), tall slender trunk, fragrant white flower clusters, and small berries.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally non-toxic but sap may cause mild skin irritation. Keep away from pets if they tend to chew plants.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Cordyline australis may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People who are allergic to plant sap should handle it with care and wear gloves when pruning. The plant's pollen is not a significant allergen.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant may also suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to intense, direct sun without acclimation. Occasionally, pests like scale insects or spider mites can appear.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental tree or shrub in gardens and landscapes for its striking foliage and architectural shape. Also suitable for large containers on patios or balconies.
Notes
Prune dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy. It can be grown indoors in a bright spot but prefers outdoor conditions. Protect from frost in colder climates.