Family: Arecaceae

A single-stemmed palm tree with a stately stature. Dr. Hillebrand imported this tree in the 1800s and planted it in what became Fosters Botanical Garden. Today it has an exceptional tree designation. The cabbage palm is both fast-growing and wind tolerant. Germination by seed takes place in 3 months. The heart or apical meristem is edible.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Edible
• Ornamental
• Specimen

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (neotropics)
  
• Repeated introductions outside native range (Hawaii, Pacific islands)
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental palm)
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds (macaws, parrots)
  
• Produces viable, readily germinating seed
  
• Native to tropical/subtropical climates

Low Risk Traits:

• No weed history (garden, agricultural, or environmental)
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• No fire hazard
  
• Requires full sun (not shade tolerant)
  
• Narrow soil preference (rich, neutral-to-alkaline)
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Takes 10–15 years to mature
  
• No wind, water, or external animal dispersal
  
• Not a prolific seed producer