red cabbage palm trees

What Are Red Cabbage Palm Trees?

The phrase "red cabbage palm trees" can cause a bit of confusion, as it doesn’t refer to a specific plant you’ll commonly find in nurseries across New Zealand. Rather, it's often used to seek out palm-like plants or shrubs with red or burgundy foliage reminiscent of cabbage palms (Cordyline species), but with bolder red colouration. Some Cordyline varieties do feature dramatic red leaves, and are excellent choices for creating a tropical vibe.

Alternatives for Red Cabbage Palm Trees

If you’re looking for the bold, red foliage that "red cabbage palm trees" suggest, consider these outstanding alternatives:

• Cordyline Red Star: A true standout in gardens, Cordyline Red Star boasts deep red, sword-like leaves and lends a palm tree appearance. These plants are hardy, versatile, and ideal for containers or garden beds.

• Shrubs with Vibrant Red Foliage: If you want to broaden your palette, explore shrubs like Photinia Super Red (Red Robin), which features vivid red new growth that matures to glossy green. Perfect for hedges, mixed borders, or stand-alone specimens, Photinia gives you a similar punch of colour and architectural beauty.

• Leucothoe axillaris Curly Red: Another alternative is Leucothoe axillaris Curly Red, known for its curly, crimson-tipped foliage and arching habit. This shrub offers year-round visual interest and thrives in partially shaded spots.

Adding Red Interest Indoors and Out

If you would love red foliage for your indoor space or patio, consider Hypoestes 'Splash Red'. This popular indoor plant sports bright red and pink speckled leaves, creating a cheerful, vibrant look—ideal for pots, hanging baskets, or table displays.

For further red-themed garden inspiration, flowering shrubs such as Camellia Roma Red offer rich, long-lasting blossoms and glossy foliage, while Grevillea Red Clusters (Red Clusters Grevillea) supplies both colour and wildlife appeal through its bold red flower spikes.

Tips for Growing Red Foliage Plants

To achieve the best colour and growth, select a sunny to partially shaded site with well-draining soil. Regular feeding and mulching will help keep foliage vibrant. For container planting, choose mixes that retain moisture but drain well.

Find Your Red Cabbage Palm Tree Look

While red cabbage palm trees may not exist by name, New Zealand gardens can easily achieve that look and feel by mixing and matching our recommended plants. Whether with cordylines, red-toned shrubs, or showy indoor foliage, the possibilities are as bold and beautiful as your imagination. Explore options like Photinia Super Red (Red Robin), Leucothoe axillaris Curly Red, and Hypoestes 'Splash Red' to create your own unique red cabbage palm tree-inspired garden.