Cabbage tree - Andira inermis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Cabbage tree

Also known as: Bastard cabbage tree, Worm bark, Brown heart, Bastard mahogany

Cabbage tree’s flowers attract pollinating insects while the seeds are a food source for local bat colonies. Found growing primarily along streams and other waterways, the tree is easily identifiable by its bark which smells like cabbage. It is also why it is referred to as the 'cabbage tree.'

Scientific classification

Species

Cabbage tree (Andira inermis)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Tree

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

35 m

Plant Height

70 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

16 cm to 60 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Cabbage tree

Distribution of Cabbage tree

Distribution Map

Cabbage tree, a tropical plant, is native to Central and South America. It has since spread to other tropical regions around the globe, including parts of Africa and South Asia. While naturally occurring in the Neotropics, cabbage tree has been introduced and cultivated in various non-native tropical areas due to its adaptability to a range of environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests along rivers, roadsides, pastures, woodlands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Cabbage tree

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cabbage tree thrives in tropical climates, adapting to heavy rainfall and dry spells. Preferring well-drained soil, it can tolerate drought once established, needing watering every two weeks. Commonly grown outdoors, it benefits from mulching to retain moisture during hot seasons.

Fertilize: For cabbage tree, use a balanced nutrition fertilizer at quarter strength monthly during the growing season, reducing application in winter. Always water the soil before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Adjust fertilization based on cabbage tree's lifecycle and environmental conditions for optimal growth.

Pruning: Cabbage tree thrives with early to late winter pruning, focusing on dead wood removal, branch thinning, and aesthetics. This timing reduces sap loss and stress, promotes healthy growth, and prevents structural issues while enhancing air circulation for a more appealing plant.

Propagation: Cabbage tree is a sturdy woody species suitable for propagation via semi-hardwood cuttings with multiple nodes. Apply rooting hormone and plant in well-draining medium. Keep cuttings moist and in dappled sunlight to replicate cabbage tree's natural habitat. New growth signifies successful rooting.

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