Cabbage Tree
Cordyline indivisafam. Asparagaceae
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Pl. 7DE9 — Cordyline indivisa
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IOverview
Overview
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline indivisa), a tall, evergreen tree native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand, is known for its multiple edible parts, including fruit, leaves, roots, shoots, and stems. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, this tree prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. Hardy from zones 7-10, it can grow up to 8 meters tall, with a distinctive rosette of large, waxy green leaves forming a striking crown at the top of its trunk. The tree is native to the North and South Islands and has been introduced to the Juan Fernández Islands, making it an ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes. Its utility extends to weaving material and fiber, adding practical value to its cultivation. While the tree is not medicinal, its edible parts offer a sweetener and other culinary uses. The cabbage tree's presence in New Zealand's native landscapes and its adaptability to cultivation in other regions make it a valuable and versatile plant.
Quick answers
What is Cabbage Tree?
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline indivisa), a tall, evergreen tree native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand, is known for its multiple edible parts, including fruit, leaves, roots, shoots, and stems. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, this tree prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline indivisa) thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium. It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 8 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Propagation can be done through root cuttings or by dividing the plant. Harvest edible parts such as fruit, leaves, roots, shoots, and stems.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cabbage Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a cabbage tree to gain experience in growing Cordyline indivisa, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A cabbage tree sapling or seeds, potting soil, and a container if planting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the risk of frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy) and medium textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground if possible, or start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and provide partial shade to avoid sunburn. Monitor for pests like aphids.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially in dry spells. Fertilize lightly every 6-8 weeks with a balanced plant food.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems to maintain the tree's health and appearance. Harvest young shoots for culinary use if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun without partial shade, neglecting regular pruning, using heavy fertilizers, and not providing adequate drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesRootShootsStem
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:Weaving materialFiber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 1 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North, New Zealand South
introduced:Juan Fernández Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asparagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asparagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Growing zone
Native to
XII
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