Cordyline australis

cabbage tree

Eventual height & spread

Cordyline australis

cabbage tree

  • 2 litre pot
  • £27.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 7.5 litre pot | 80 - 100cm tall
  • £69.99
  • shipped within 2 weeks
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: average to fast
  • Flowering period: July to August
  • Hardiness: half hardy (will need protection in wnter)


This popular, palm-like tree has arching, lance shaped, light green leaves, retained throughout the year. Mature trees produce dramatic white flower spikes that smell exquisite. It's an ideal focal point plant for a sunny, protected border, patio or for the exotic garden. It is also faster growing than the varieties with coloured foliage. In frost-prone areas Cordyline australis is best grown inside a warm greenhouse or conservatory.

Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.


  • Garden care:
    When planting in pots, use a loam based compost, such as John Innes No.2 mixed with potting grit, upgrading to John Innes No.3 as the plant grows. In severe winter weather, protect from frost and wind damage by tying up the foliage and wrapping in bubble wrap or a horticultural fleece, ensuring it's removed promptly, when conditions improve, to prevent rot.

    Feed monthly during the growing season with a liquid fertiliser from spring to late summer, and water regularly, especially for container-grown plants, even though mature cordylines are drought-tolerant.

    Remove damaged foliage as needed, and in colder regions, move potted plants to a sheltered spot or cover outdoor plants with fleece. In spring, once new growth appears and frost risk has passed, prune frost-damaged branches just above emerging shoots for a tidy, rejuvenated look.
  • Goes well with