Botanical Name
Cordyline obtecta
Common Name
Norfolk Island Cabbage Tree
Description
Norfolk Island Cabbage Tree is a magnificent native palm renowned for its tropical architectural form and fragrant white flower displays that creates stunning focal points in coastal gardens. This distinctive species develops a thick trunk topped with a crown of broad, sword-like leaves that create impressive palm-like architecture, while producing large panicles of highly fragrant white flowers followed by colorful berries. The broad, strap-like leaves provide attractive evergreen foliage that maintains year-round structural interest with excellent salt tolerance. Hardy and adaptable once established, it thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade positions with good coastal wind tolerance. Perfect for coastal feature plantings, tropical-style gardens, and areas where architectural native palms with spectacular fragrant flowering create memorable seaside landscapes.
Plant Category
Trees
Size (H x W)
Height: 4-10 meters, Spread: 3-5 meters
Cordyline obtecta is endemic to Norfolk Island, naturally occurring in coastal and inland areas with well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade exposure in subtropical climates with excellent salt and wind tolerance.
Cultural SIgnificance
As an endemic species of Norfolk Island, this cabbage tree represents the unique flora of the island and was traditionally valued by the island’s inhabitants for its fibrous leaves and as an important component of the island’s distinctive ecosystems.
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