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new zealand cabbage palm tree

The New Zealand cabbage palm tree, a true icon of Kiwi landscapes, holds a special place in gardens and natural spaces throughout Aotearoa. Known botanically as Cordyline australis, this remarkable tree showcases elegant, strappy foliage and a graceful, palm-like appearance—making it a popular choice for adding height, texture, and distinctly New Zealand flair to gardens. Whether you're designing a coastal, contemporary, or native planting scheme, the New Zealand cabbage palm tree brings beauty, resilience, and a touch of classic heritage to your outdoor space.

Cordyline australis trees growing as a cluster.

Cordyline australis

5 from 2 customers

Cordyline australis, also known as the Cabbage Tree or tī kōuka, is a hardy and iconic New Zealand native. It features long, sword-like green leaves and scented spring flowers that attract birds. Ideal for coastal, rural, and urban landscapes, this low-maintenance tree adds height, texture, and native charm to any garden.

From $16.49

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 8.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Riparian
Cordyline australis albertii plants with variegated foliage.

Cordyline albertii

Cordyline albertii (Variegated Cabbage Tree) is a striking evergreen tree admired for its bold green leaves edged with creamy white variegation. This eye catching form adds brightness and structure to New Zealand gardens while maintaining a strong architectural presence.

From $340.69

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 2.50 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical
Cordyline 'Broadsword' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Cordyline Broadsword

Cordyline 'Broadsword' is a smaller variety of the commonly known Cabbage Tree, and features broad, bright green leaves held on a small tree. It...

From$30.29
Chinese Windmill Palms planted as a cluster.
Trachycarpus fortunei (Chinese Windmill Palm)

Trachycarpus fortunei, commonly known as the Windmill Palm, is a hardy, evergreen palm ideal for New Zealand gardens. It features a tall, slender...

From$425.89
Rhopalostylis sapida palms growing as a cluster.
Rhopalostylis sapida

Rhopalostylis sapida, commonly known as Nikau Palm, is a fast-growing and beautiful Palm tree. From a central trunk, it produces large and broad...

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Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palm)

Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palm) is a graceful, fast growing palm known for its arching fronds and tropical appearance. This elegant tree adds...

From$202.44
A Metrosideros robusta (Northern Rata) tree in full flower in a native reserve.
Metrosideros robusta

Metrosideros robusta, commonly known as Northern Rata, is a majestic New Zealand native tree renowned for its brilliant red flowers and large...

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Cycas revoluta (Sago Palm) in a luxurious garden.
Cycas revoluta

Cycas revoluta, commonly known as the Sago Palm, King Sago, Sago Cycad, or Japanese Sago Palm, is an impressive and popular, small Palm tree. It...

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A lagre Podocarpus totara tree about 150 years of age.
Podocarpus totara

Podocarpus totara, commonly known as the Totara tree, is a majestic native tree of New Zealand, prized for its durable timber and cultural...

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Phoenix roebelenii

Phoenix roebelenii (Dwarf Date Palm) is an elegant palm valued for its fine, arching fronds and compact tropical appearance. The graceful green...

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Beaucarnea recurvata (Pony Palm)

Beaucarnea recurvata (Ponytail Palm) is a distinctive ornamental plant admired for its swollen trunk base and long arching leaves. This unique plant...

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Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

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Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka) tree with green-yellow foliage.
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka)

Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Kawaka, is a majestic NZ native conifer valued for its graceful, feathery foliage and elegant pyramidal form...

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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.
Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching...

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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

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Plagianthus regius as a small tree in a garden.
Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Plagianthus regius, commonly known as Ribbonwood or Manatu, is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing native trees. It can reach 10–15 metres tall and...

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Dypsis baronii (Sugar Cane Palm) with lush, green foliage.
Dypsis baronii

Dypsis baronii, commonly known as The Sugar Cane Palm, is a stunning plant which is well suited to smaller gardens. It is renowned for its multiple...

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Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

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Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

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Palm Tree Fertiliser (Palm Tree Fertiliser)

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Dysoxylum spectabile tree.
Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)

Dysoxylum spectabile, commonly known as Kohekohe, is a majestic NZ native tree admired for its glossy dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant...

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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

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Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

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Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga) plants in flower with lush green foliage in a border garden.
Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily)

Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as Rengarenga Lily or New Zealand Rock Lily, is a clump-forming, evergreen perennial native to New Zealand. It...

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Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

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The best new lawn fertiliser in NZ.
New Lawn Fertiliser

Establishing a new lawn requires the proper nutrients to ensure robust root development and healthy growth. Our New Lawn Fertiliser, featuring...

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Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.
Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark...

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Cordyline australis

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Cordyline, Cycas, and Metrosideros, or related Categories - Cycad, Palm Trees, and Evergreen Trees.

Search new zealand cabbage palm tree

What is the New Zealand Cabbage Palm Tree?

The New Zealand cabbage palm tree is widely celebrated for its tall, slender trunk and clusters of vibrant green leaves that radiate from the crown, swaying beautifully in the breeze. Reaching heights up to 20 metres in the wild, this native is also a hardy choice for home gardens, where it typically stays more compact. Its creamy, fragrant flower sprays attract native birds and pollinators, while its architectural silhouette makes it an eye-catching focal point year-round. For gardeners seeking a lush, low-maintenance tree that thrives in a variety of conditions, the New Zealand cabbage palm tree is an inspired selection.

Growing and Care Tips

One of the greatest advantages of the New Zealand cabbage palm tree is its resilience. It tolerates coastal wind, poor soils, drought, and even occasional frosts, making it suitable for nearly any location across New Zealand. For best results, plant your cabbage palm in a sunny or part-shaded spot with well-draining soil. Water regularly until established, then allow nature to take its course—these trees are remarkably self-sufficient. Occasional mulching helps retain moisture and encourages strong growth.

Whether you’re planting a solitary specimen or grouping several together for impact, remember that the New Zealand cabbage palm tree develops a stout trunk over time and can form multiple heads. Prune off spent flowers or damaged leaves for tidiness.

Versatile Uses in the Garden

As a centrepiece in native plantings, along driveways, or in coastal gardens, the New Zealand cabbage palm tree excels. It’s often chosen for windbreaks, street planting, or to lend an exotic, subtropical feel to outdoor living areas. These palms pair beautifully with other natives and ornamentals, both in formal structured beds and relaxed bush-style gardens.

Looking to create layers or introduce different textures to your landscape? Explore related Cordyline species to mix and match foliage shapes and colours. The vibrant Cordyline albertii offers colourful variegation, while Cordyline banksii (Forest Cabbage Tree) features broader leaves for a bolder look. For smaller spaces, Cordyline pumilio (Dwarf Cabbage Tree) is a superb compact choice, and for those in cooler regions, Cordyline indivisa (Mountain Cabbage Tree) brings unique, blue-green foliage to the mix.

Why Choose the New Zealand Cabbage Palm Tree?

Beyond its good looks, the New Zealand cabbage palm tree is treasured for its ecological benefits—providing nectar and berries for native birds and offering shelter to wildlife. Gardeners appreciate its ability to withstand challenging conditions, thriving where other trees might struggle. Add in its indigenous heritage and year-round ornamental value, and it's easy to see why this cabbage tree is a must-have for gardeners across New Zealand.

Ready to add structure, movement, and authentic Kiwi character to your garden? Choose the New Zealand cabbage palm tree for timeless beauty and robust performance.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
There’s more to explore beyond Rose 'Flower Carpet White' and Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' — like the subtle beauty of Echeveria Dark Prince, Artemisia 'Powis Castle' (Common Wormwood), and Alectryon excelsus.
–The Plant Company

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