
10x cabbage Tree - $2.99 each
Cordyline australis
Overview
A striking and iconic New Zealand native tree known for its graceful form and tropical appearance. Cordyline australis—commonly called the Cabbage Tree or Tī Kōuka—features long, sword-like leaves atop a sturdy trunk, creating a dramatic silhouette that adds height, texture, and movement to gardens and landscapes.
Key Features
Foliage: Long, narrow green leaves forming dense tufts on tall stems; leaves arch gracefully and rustle in the wind.
Flowers / Fruit: Large clusters of creamy, fragrant flowers in early summer attract bees and birds, followed by small white berries enjoyed by native birds.
Form & Habit: Single- or multi-trunked tree with branching heads of foliage; architectural and sculptural.
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast.
Cultural & Ecological Value: A keystone native species providing food and habitat for birds and insects; highly tolerant of wind, coastal exposure, and drought once established.
Mature Size
Attribute | Size |
---|---|
Height | 5 – 10 m (occasionally taller in natural conditions) |
Spread | 2 – 3 m |
Form | Multi-stemmed, upright, branching tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions
Requirement | Detail |
---|---|
Light | Full sun to light shade |
Water | Low; drought tolerant once established |
Soil | Prefers free-draining soil but tolerates clay and sandy soils |
pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
Frost Tolerance | Very hardy to frost once mature |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
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Iconic specimen for NZ-native or coastal gardens
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Excellent for feature planting, driveways, and revegetation projects
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Adds height and architectural contrast in mixed plantings
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Perfect for wildlife-friendly gardens and restoration schemes
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks or old leaves as needed; prune back damaged trunks to promote new shoots.
Watering: Minimal once established; water during prolonged dry spells.
Feeding: Generally not required; apply native fertiliser in spring if desired.
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy; may be affected by cabbage tree moth in humid regions—remove damaged leaves to discourage pests.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
The Māori name Tī Kōuka reflects its cultural importance—historically used for food, fibre, and medicine. It’s one of New Zealand’s most recognisable and enduring native trees.
Why Choose Cordyline australis?
A beautiful, resilient native symbol of Aotearoa—easy to grow, architectural in form, and loved by wildlife. Perfect for adding instant height and native character to any landscape.
Pot Size
4cm square pot
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.