Cabbage Tree (Cordyline indivisa)

Family: Agavaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Cordyline indivisa is an evergreen Tree growing to 8 m (26ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and starchy, it is used to make porridge or a sweet drink. — Pith of the trunk - dried and steamed until soft.; Sweet and starchy, it is used to make porridge or a sweet drink.; The root and stems are rich in fructose, the yields compare favourably with Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris altissima).; Edible shoots - a cabbage substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Wetter mountains in North and South Islands. Openings in wet forests. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)