Origin, Description & Uses
Cussonia spicata, commonly known as cabbage tree, is native to southern Africa, where it grows in open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes. This small to medium-sized tree is valued for its bold, tropical appearance, featuring a thick, often slightly swollen trunk and a rounded canopy of large, glossy leaves divided into finger-like segments. Upright spikes of small greenish flowers are followed by clusters of purple berries that can attract birds. Because of its sculptural form and drought tolerance, cabbage tree is commonly planted as an ornamental specimen in gardens, parks, and xeriscapes in warm climates.

Risks, Threats & Management
Cabbage tree is considered Low Risk for invasiveness in Hawaiʻi. While it produces bird-attractive fruit, it has not shown a tendency to aggressively spread or disrupt natural areas. As with any ornamental plant, occasional seedlings may appear near cultivated trees, but these are typically easy to manage. Routine garden maintenance and removal of unwanted seedlings are usually sufficient to prevent spread. For landscaping near sensitive natural areas, choosing native or other low-risk species is always encouraged to help protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems.