Cordyline australis

Cabbage Palm, Giant Dracaena

Character: Evergreen; bushy form, dense and round headed to spreading canopy.
Size: Medium (Height 20-40'; Spread 20-40').
Growth: Moderate.
Foliage: Dark green, compound leaves with glossy, oval leaflets.
Flower: Insignificant flowers.
Fruit: Female trees produce brown pods, 4-12" long in the summer only in the warmest neighborhoods.
Bark: Light gray bark.
Monthly Watering Needs: In general, 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
Tree Care: Moderate. Annual pruning to establish main leader and balance scaffold branches. Maintain open canopy and prune suckers.
Tolerances: Sandy soil.
Special Considerations: 4x4' basin or larger recommended. Can tolerate some wind in warmer microclimates. Prefers sun. Develops significant roots with age.
Notable Traits: Native to Eastern Mediterranean. In San Francisco, males are planted along sidewalks. Females produce and drop 1' long, dark-brown leathery seed pods (the seed pods are ground to a fine powder and used as a chocolate substitute).