Maintenance Landscaping Design

Cabbage tree is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach a height of 15 metres (49 feet). The tree has a thick, trunk and spreading branches. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the flowers are small and white. The fruit is a small, hard, red berry.

Also known as

• Tree Cabbage
  
• Cabbage Palm
  
• Cabbage Tree
  
• Cabbage Tree Palm
  
• Palm Cabbage
  

Things to Know

• Cabbage trees are one of the most common trees in New Zealand.
  
• They can grow up to 20 metres tall.
  
• The leaves of cabbage trees are large and leathery.
  
• Cabbage trees produce flowers which are pollinated by bees.
  
• The flowers of cabbage trees turn into fruit which is eaten by birds.
  
• Cabbage trees have a deep root system which helps them to survive in dry conditions.
  
• Cabbage trees are an important food source for native animals such as possums and birds.
  
• Cabbage trees are also used by humans for their wood, which is strong and durable.
  
• Cabbage trees are considered to be a pest by some farmers as they can spread quickly and shade out other plants.
  
• Cabbage trees are an iconic species of New Zealand and are often used in art and literature.

Planting Process

1. For cabbage tree, first step is to get a pot that is around 12 inches deep and has good drainage.
   
2. Fill the pot with a high-quality potting mix or a mixture of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
   
3. Sow the seeds in the potting mix, and then lightly cover them with more mix.
   
4. Water the potting mix until it is evenly moist but not soggy.
   
5. Place the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
   
6. Keep the potting mix moist but not soggy, and fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
   
7. When the seedlings are 4 to 6 inches tall, thin them so that only the strongest plant remains.
   
8. Transplant the cabbage tree to a larger pot when it becomes rootbound.
   
9. Overwinter indoors in a cool, bright location.
   
10. Take the tree outside in spring and summer, but bring it back indoors before the first frost.

Related plant:
Cabbage Palm

Soil Condition

About soil , the cabbage tree grows best in a deep, moist, well-drained soil, high in organic matter. It is quite tolerant of salt spray and windy conditions. The cabbage tree is not particularly fussy about soil type as it is able to grow in sandy soils, heavy clay soils and even on rocky outcrops.

About light

So, like the other plants, the cabbage tree needs sunlight to grow. However, it is not as picky as other plants when it comes to sunlight. The cabbage tree can grow in both full sun and partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate some drought.

Good Temperature

The temperature conditions that are necessary for a cabbage tree to grow are not too hot and not too cold. The ideal temperature for a cabbage tree to grow is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too hot or too cold, the cabbage tree will not be able to grow.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% Cabbage tree does not like too much humidity, as it will cause the leaves to yellow and drop off. The plant also does not like to be too dry, as this will cause the leaves to wilt. If the humidity is too low, the plant may stop growing altogether.

The Fertilizer

About fertilizer, usually the plant need more nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow faster. And the root part is consume more fertilizer than other parts, so we need to pay more attention when we fertilize. If we use too much fertilizer, it will increase the plant's growth rate, but the plant's quality will deteriorate. If the fertilizer is applied improperly, it will not only fail to achieve the desired fertilizer effect, but may also cause damage to the roots, which will affect the growth of the whole plant.

About light

Pruning your cabbage tree is an important part of keeping it healthy. By pruning away dead or diseased leaves and branches, you allow the tree to focus its energy on new growth. Pruning also helps to promote airflow, which can help prevent disease.

About Propagating

Propagation is by seed, which is sown as soon as it is ripe in late summer or autumn. The seed germinates quickly and the young plants are ready to plant out the following spring. It is also possible to propagate from semi-ripe cuttings taken in mid- to late summer.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 12 and 24 inches per year. However, if the growing conditions are favorable, such as in deep, rich soils with adequate moisture, some trees may grow as much as 36 inches in a single year. Growth rates will vary based on the age and size of the tree.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are caterpillars, slugs, and aphids. The best way to combat these pests is to remove them by hand. However, if you have a large infestation, you may need to use insecticide. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Tips on Growing

• Do not forget to water your cabbage tree regularly. The best way to water it is to use a drip irrigation system.
  
• Fertilize your plant every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Place your plant in an area where it will receive full sun.
  
• Prune your cabbage tree regularly to keep it from becoming too large.
  
• If you live in an area with cold winters, you will need to protect your plant from the cold weather.
  
• When harvesting your cabbage, cut the head off at the base of the plant.
  
• Cabbage can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two months.
  
• To prevent your plant from bolting, keep it well watered during hot, dry weather.
  
• If you notice your plant is starting to bolt, you can try to prolong the harvest by removing the flower buds.
  
• When cooking cabbage, make sure to

Similar Plants

• Cabbage Tree Island
  
• Cabbage Tree Road
  
• Cabbage Tree Point
  
• Cabbage Tree Pocket
  
• Cabbage Tree Creek
  
• Cabbage Tree Basin
  
• Cabbage Tree Boat Harbour
  
• Cabbage Tree Island (New South Wales)
  
• Cabbage Tree Island (Queensland)
  
• Cabbage Tree Island (Vic)

Source:
Cabbage - Gardening Solutions - University of Florida
Chinese cabbage | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, …
Cabbage Maggot [fact sheet] | Extension