How to Grow and Care for Cussonia

Cabbage tree is a large tree found throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. It grows as much as 15 m tall, blooms with showy yellow flowers, and is a favorite food of African elephants.

Native to southern Africa, the mountain cabbage tree is said to have had some native uses. Caution though, because it can be toxic to both humans and animals. Mountain cabbage tree produces purple fruits that attract birds. It is also a host to the larvae of some moths.

Octopus cabbage tree is a robust tree typically identified by its palm-like silhouette with a thick, sturdy trunk. It sports large, digitate leaves radiating at the tip of its branches, creating an umbrella-like canopy. This adaptive feature allows octopus cabbage tree to thrive in various environments by capturing sunlight efficiently and shading its own base. Its distinctive appearance makes octopus cabbage tree an attractive and recognizable feature in both natural and cultivated landscapes.

Cussonia thyrsiflora is distinctive for its dense, cylindrical flower clusters and thick, hand-shaped leaves. This robust, evergreen plant is adapted to survive in dry, rocky habitats, investing in deep roots and a water-storing stem, allowing it to thrive in harsh environments. Its architecture, with a stout trunk and umbrella-like foliage, offers a striking silhouette against sparse landscapes.