Family: Araliaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Cussonia arenicola, commonly known as sand cabbage, is native to southern Africa, where it grows in sandy soils and dry, open habitats. This distinctive small tree or shrub has a thick, often swollen trunk and a rounded canopy of large, deeply divided, blue-green leaves that give it a bold, tropical appearance. Over time it can develop sculptural branching and a striking silhouette, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens. Sand cabbage is valued as an ornamental specimen plant and is well-suited to warm climates with well-drained soils.
Risks, Threats & Management
Sand cabbage is considered Low Risk in Hawaiʻi. It has not shown invasive tendencies and does not typically spread aggressively beyond cultivation. The species produces seeds but has not demonstrated the ability to naturalize widely or outcompete native vegetation in tropical island environments. As with any introduced plant, it is wise to monitor for unwanted seedlings and practice responsible garden management. When planted thoughtfully in appropriate settings, sand cabbage can be an attractive and manageable addition to the landscape.
High Risk Traits:
- Able to grow in regions with tropical climates
- Shade-tolerant
- Reproduces by seeds
- Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people
- Limited ecological information may lower accuracy of risk prediction
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Ornamental and medicinal uses
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
