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Description
Cussonia Arborea, commonly known as the African cabbage tree, is a large, fast-growing, evergreen tree that belongs to the Araliaceae family. This tree is native to Africa, where it can be found in Madagascar, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and can have a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The African cabbage tree has a straight trunk with a gray-brown bark that is smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured as it ages. The leaves are large and compound, with up to 13 leaflets that are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged in large, branched clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Cussonia |
Appearance
The African cabbage tree has a striking appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. Its large size, glossy leaves, and attractive flowers make it a great focal point in any garden. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem, and each leaflet can grow up to 30 cm long and 10 cm wide. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged in large, branched clusters. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that are green when young but turn brown as they mature. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and becomes rough and fissured as it ages.
Care Guide
Cussonia Arborea is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your African cabbage tree:Water: This tree requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the winter.Fertilization: The African cabbage tree does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.Soil: This tree can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The African cabbage tree prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The African cabbage tree is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, which can be controlled with a horticultural oil spray. It can also be affected by root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
The African cabbage tree is native to Africa, where it can be found in Madagascar, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It is commonly found in open woodlands, rocky hillsides, and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the African cabbage tree a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the African cabbage tree can provide excellent shade due to its large size and broad leaves.Q: Can the African cabbage tree be grown in a pot?
A: It is not recommended to grow this tree in a pot, as it can quickly outgrow its container and become root-bound.Q: Does the African cabbage tree have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, extracts from the bark of the tree have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, coughs, and stomach disorders.Q: Is the African cabbage tree a good choice for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, this tree can tolerate salty air and soil, making it a great choice for coastal gardens.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to the African cabbage tree:- Cussonia Paniculata- Schefflera Actinophylla- Fatsia Japonica- Aralia Elata
References
– “Cussonia arborea.” PlantZAfrica.com. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cussonarborea.htm- “Cussonia arborea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277776- “Cussonia arborea.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. https://www.kew.org/science/tropamerica/kew-amazon-link-project/k-alp-species-info?seqid=19490
