Cordyline australis

What are the garden uses for Cordyline australis in NZ?

Cordyline australis is a much-loved, NZ native tree that is widely used in NZ gardens. It is most commonly is commonly grown as specimen, added to a mixed planting, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants. It is a great complement to a modern or native garden where it is often planted in clusters with the added advantage that it attracts native birds. It is the tidy form and foliage that makes Cordyline australis an excellent choice for a NZ garden.

Why is the Cordyline australis common name Cabbage tree?

The common name "Cabbage tree" for Cordyline australis has an interesting history, and it's tied to how early European settlers and sailors perceived and used the plant. The central, unopened leaves of the Cordyline australis, particularly the young shoots, could be cooked and eaten. To early European settlers, this edible core resembled a cabbage, hence the name. It is also noted that the term "cabbage tree" was already in use by sailors for various palm trees in other parts of the world, where the terminal buds were also eaten. So, the term was already in use, and was then applied to the Cordyline australis.

What is involved with transplanting Cordyline australis?

Transplanting Cordyline australis can be tricky, especially with mature plants, as they don't like root disturbance. Winter is generally the best time for transplanting as this allows the plant to establish new roots before the heat of summer arrives. Cordyline australis can be sensitive to root disturbance so minimising any damage or loss of roots during transplanting is essential. This means you’ll want to take as much soil with the plant as possible when digging one up. When replanting the tree be sure to ensure the site is well-drained as Cordylines are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil. However, be sure not to let the site dry out as the tree will need to establish and grow more roots. NB: Older, larger Cordyline australis will be more difficult to transplant successfully and the chances of success diminish the bigger the tree. You may want to consider buying a large grade tree from a nursery such as The Plant Company which can be planted without issue.

Where can you buy Cordyline australis?

The Plant Company has the best Cordyline australis trees to buy in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your Cordyline australis needs and impress you with both our products and service!

What is the growth rate of Cordyline australis?

Cordyline australis will eventually reach 8 m tall and 3 m wide but it can take 10-15 years to reach this height. If the tree is grown in favourable conditions such as a well-drained site in full sun that is protected from wind, the growth rate will be faster than in less favourable conditions. As a general guide, the Cordyline australis growth rate is 50-70 cm of height gain per year.

What does the Cabbage Tree Cordyline australis need to grow well?

The Cabbage Tree Cordyline australis performs best when grown in full sun on a well-drained soil. The critical element is a well-drained soil as the tree can succumb to root rot on wet soils. Wind protection is important during the early stages of growth to achieve good form so you may also want to think about staking the tree which will help it establish quicker. Apply native tree fertiliser in spring across the soil surface to help grow an amazing tree.

Cordyline australis care

Cordyline australis is a relatively hardy plant, but providing the right care will ensure it thrives. Cordyline australis thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil which is crucial to prevent root rot and tree death. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as drainage is adequate. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry period, especially when young. The recommended feeding regime is native tree fertiliser scattered across the soil surface in spring. This will keep the tree fed for the next 12 months. Minimal pruning is required aside from removed dead or damaged leaves. The tree can, however, be cut back in summer if it becomes too large. Keep an eye out for pests like mealybugs, scale, and spider mites.

Does the Cordyline australis flower smell?

Cordyline australis flowers do have a scent, and their smell is quite noticeable. The flowers produce a strong, sweet fragrance that can be quite pervasive, especially in the evening. Many describe it as a lily-like scent. However, scent perception is subjective. While many find it pleasant, some people report less favourable comparisons, saying it smells like cat urine, or other less pleasant smells. Nevertheless, the strong scent is effective in attracting pollinators, particularly bees, which are drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.