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Description
Cussonia Thyrsiflora, commonly known as the cabbage tree or the common cabbage tree, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is one of the most popular ornamental trees in South Africa. The tree has a single trunk and a rounded crown with large, green leaves that resemble those of a cabbage. It can grow up to a height of 10 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 600 mm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Cussonia |
Appearance
The cabbage tree has a striking appearance with its large, round, and blue-green leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern on the stem. The leaves can grow up to 1 meter in length and have a leathery texture. The tree produces small, creamy-yellow flowers in summer, which are followed by green, berry-like fruits that turn red when ripe. The trunk of the tree is thick and has a rough, grey-brown bark.
Care Guide
Cussonia Thyrsiflora is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to ensure the tree stays healthy:Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The cabbage tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and mealybugs. Regular inspection of the tree can help identify any infestations, and treatment with an insecticide can help control the pests.
Habitat
Cussonia Thyrsiflora is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the eastern parts of the country. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including forest margins, rocky hillsides, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cussonia Thyrsiflora tolerate drought?A: While the tree can tolerate some drought, it prefers regular watering.Q: Can Cussonia Thyrsiflora be grown in a container?A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, provided it is given sufficient space for its roots to spread.Q: How often should Cussonia Thyrsiflora be fertilized?A: The tree should be fertilized every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.Q: How fast does Cussonia Thyrsiflora grow?A: The tree is a slow grower, typically growing only a few centimeters per year.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cussonia Thyrsiflora:- Cussonia Paniculata- Cussonia Spicata- Cussonia Transvaalensis
References
– “Cussonia thyrsiflora (Cabbage tree).” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/planttuv/cussoniathyrs.htm.- “Cussonia thyrsiflora.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/1912/cussonia-thyrsiflora/details.
