Botanical name:

Cordyline pumilio

Common name(s):

Dwarf or Pigmy Cabbage Tree, Ti koraha

About:

This is New Zealand’s shortest cabbage tree, known for its unique characteristics and remarkable appearance. It usually has no stem and is often mistaken for a flax plant due to its similar look. With very narrow green leaves, this species closely resembles a sedge or grass, adding an interesting element to its environment. A beautiful flower spike or panicle appears in the months of November or December, attracting a variety of bird and bee life, making it a vital part of the local ecosystem.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane. Often in gum-land and other shrub-land. Common in kauri (Agathis australis) forest, especially along ridge lines and around slip scars.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Salt, Wetland, Wind, Coastal, Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North Island from Te Paki (North Cape) to Kawhia Harbour in the west and Bay of Plenty in the East.

Height: 2m

Flowering:

October – January with small white or pink coloured flowers.

Fruiting:

March - May with a blueish coloured fruit.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed and stem cuttings. Does well in full sun in a well drained soil. It an excellent plant for a raised garden or for pot culture on for example a deck. A purple-leaved form of Corydline pumilio is now very popular in cultivation.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though