Family: Asparagaceae

Cordyline australis, commonly known as cabbage palm or cabbage tree, is a striking evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It is easily recognized by its slender trunk topped with tufts of long, narrow, arching leaves, giving it a palm-like appearance. In spring and early summer, mature trees produce large sprays of small, fragrant white flowers that are attractive to insects and birds. Cordyline australis is widely cultivated as an ornamental for landscaping and streetscapes due to its drought tolerance, architectural form, and adaptability. Traditionally, parts of the plant were used by Māori for food, fiber, and medicinal purposes.

Although Cordyline australis is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. The species produces abundant seeds that can be widely dispersed by birds, and it has shown invasive tendencies in other parts of the world where it has escaped cultivation. Its ability to tolerate a range of environmental conditions raises the potential for spread beyond managed landscapes. As a result, caution is recommended when planting this species to ensure it does not negatively impact Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability
  
• Naturalized in Australia and California
  
• Regarded as a potential environmental weed in Australia
  
• Potential fire hazard (flammability increases with age)
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• May form dense stands in native range
  
• Hybridizes with other Cordyline species
  
• Reproduces by seeds and suckering
  
• Spread by dumped garden waste in Australia
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people
  
• May form a persistent seed bank
  
• Able to resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• Native to temperate climates (may only be a threat at higher elevations)
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Palatable to animals and humans
  
• Ornamental
  
• Self-incompatible
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control