Cabbage Tree Cordyline australis Charlie Boy = 'Ric01' (PBR) (v)
ABOUT
Cordyline australis Charlie Boy, commonly known as 'Charlie Boy' Cordyline, is a visually striking plant with a bold appearance. This variety is especially notable for its colorful foliage. The leaves of 'Charlie Boy' are sword-like and arching, creating a dramatic visual effect. They display a striking combination of colors, typically a mix of pink, cream, and green hues, often with a vibrant pink to red edge which adds a defining outline to each leaf. This variegation adds considerable interest and can brighten up any garden setting. The plant's foliage grows in a dense, tufted manner, emerging from a central point, giving the appearance of a full and lush head. Each leaf is long and pointed, contributing to the plant's overall texture. As with other Cordylines, the leaves tend to be smooth and somewhat leathery to the touch. Depending on the light and the maturity of the foliage, the colors can vary in intensity, with younger leaves often showing more vivid coloration. 'Charlie Boy' Cordyline is a cultivar that brings a touch of exotic flare to the landscape with its distinctive color palette and architectural form. It makes an excellent focal point in a garden design or can add contrast and interest when grouped with plants of differing shapes and colors.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Cabbage Palm, Cabbage Tree, Torbay Palm, Ti Kouka.
Common names
Cordyline australis Charlie Boy = 'Ric01' (PBR) (v).
ToxicityTo humans
The Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) is not known to be highly toxic to humans. It does not typically cause serious poisoning when ingested. As with many plants, sensitivities can vary from individual to individual, and consuming plant parts may potentially cause mild stomach upset in some people, but it is not known for containing any potent toxins that would lead to severe symptoms or consequences in humans.
To pets
The Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis) is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It does not contain any known compounds that are highly toxic to pets. However, ingestion of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, including vomiting and diarrhea, particularly if a pet consumes a large amount. If these symptoms occur, it is usually recommended to monitor your pet and consult a veterinarian if the symptoms persist or worsen.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: The 'Charlie Boy' variety is known for its striking pink, cream, and green variegated leaves that add a vibrant pop of color to any garden or landscape.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering or complex care, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Architectural Interest: With its tall, upright stature and sword-shaped leaves, it adds architectural interest to garden designs, contrasting nicely with rounded or softer plant forms.
- Adaptability: Cordyline australis is adaptable to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils, making it a versatile choice for various garden conditions.
- Year-Round Interest: It retains its foliage throughout the year, ensuring that the garden remains visually appealing even in the colder months.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of the plant can attract pollinators like bees, adding an ecological benefit and supporting local biodiversity.
- Container Gardening: Due to its upright growth habit, it is suitable for container gardening, enabling people with limited space, such as balconies, to enjoy its beauty.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cordyline australis, commonly known as the cabbage tree, can be used as a natural fencing material when planted in rows due to its thick foliage and tall growth habit.
- The strong, fibrous leaves of the cabbage tree can be woven into ropes or cords, a practice historically used by indigenous Maori people in New Zealand.
- Young shoots of the cabbage tree are edible and can be used in culinary applications, like adding a unique flavor to salads.
- The dried leaves of the cabbage tree may be used for creating traditional thatched roofs, offering a sustainable roofing material.
- The wood of the cabbage tree is quite dense and can be used to make durable walking sticks or carved into various forms of artwork.
- When the leaves of the cabbage tree are dried and bundled together, they can serve as fire starters due to their quick ignition properties.
- The trunks of mature cabbage trees can be hollowed out and used as natural water pipes or gutters for traditional rainwater harvesting systems.
- Flowering stalks of the cabbage tree can be used in large scale flower arrangements or as a natural alternative to conventional garden stakes.
- The strong fibers of the cabbage tree leaves can be used to craft durable baskets and mats, showcasing both utility and the plant’s aesthetic appeal.
- Due to its tall and striking appearance, the cabbage tree is sometimes planted as a natural landmark or meeting point in large landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cordyline, commonly known as Cabbage Tree, can be used in Feng Shui to add a vertical element to the space, promoting upward growth and the flow of positive energy. It can be placed in the wealth area to attract prosperity or in the wood element areas of your home to foster personal growth.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cabbage Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience and Strength: With its tough, evergreen leaves, the Cabbage Tree symbolizes the ability to withstand harsh conditions and bounce back from adversity.
- Endurance: It grows slowly but steadily, representing long-lasting endurance and commitment over time.
- Uniqueness: The 'Charlie Boy' variety, with its standout foliage, embodies uniqueness and a flair for the unconventional.
- Purification: Traditionally, trees like the Cabbage Tree were believed to have purifying qualities, symbolizing the cleansing of air and spirit.
- Healing: Native Maori used the Cabbage Tree for medicinal purposes, which gives it the symbolic meaning of healing and health.
WaterThe Charlie Boy Cordyline, commonly known as the Cabbage Tree, requires consistent moisture but should not be left in standing water. It is best to water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be about once a week, depending on climate conditions. Use about 1-2 gallons of water per plant during each watering session, ensuring that the water reaches deep into the root zone. During hotter months, the frequency of watering may need to increase, and conversely, in cooler months, watering can be reduced.
LightCabbage Tree thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some direct sun. The ideal spot would be where the plant receives filtered sunlight throughout the day, such as near an east-facing window or a spot with some afternoon shade to protect it from the harsh late-day sun.
TemperatureThe Cabbage Tree prefers temperatures between 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. To encourage healthy growth, maintain the plant in this temperature range and avoid exposure to extreme cold or sudden temperature changes.
PruningPrune the Cabbage Tree to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape. The best time for pruning is in the spring before new growth begins. Pruning once a year is typically sufficient, but inspect the plant periodically for any leaves that require removal.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCabbage tree (Cordyline australis 'Charlie Boy') thrives best in a well-draining soil mix comprising a combination of loam, peat, and sand or perlite. The ideal pH level for this soil mix should range between 6.0 and 6.5 to allow for optimal growth and nutrient uptake. Organic matter can be added to enrich the soil and enhance its structure.
RepottingThe Cabbage tree should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure it has enough space to grow. It's best to repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use fresh soil and a slightly larger pot each time to accommodate the root growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Cabbage tree prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Maintaining indoor humidity levels around 40-50% is typically satisfactory for this plant. Avoid placing it in extremely dry environments as this can cause leaf tips to brown.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot, shelter from strong winds, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleCordyline australis 'Charlie Boy', commonly known as Cabbage Tree or Torbay Palm, begins its life cycle with seed germination, where the warm and moist conditions facilitate the emergence of a small seedling. The seedling then develops into a juvenile plant, exhibiting strap-like leaves and slowly forming a woody stem as it matures. Once the plant reaches maturity, it produces clusters of fragrant, white to pale pink flowers, typically in the spring or early summer, attracting pollinators such as insects and birds. Following pollination, the flowers develop into berry-like fruits containing seeds, which are then dispersed, often by birds that eat the fruit. The parent plant continues to grow, potentially reaching heights of up to 20 meters, and can live for several decades. It should be noted that 'Charlie Boy' is a cultivar and may also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings to maintain its specific characteristics.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Cordyline australis Charlie Boy, commonly known as Cabbage Tree or Charlie Boy, can be propagated using stem cuttings. This is the most popular method and is typically done in late spring to early summer. To propagate from stem cuttings, a healthy section of stem around 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 centimeters) long is cut using a sharp, clean knife or pair of shears. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is allowed to dry for a few hours to form a callous over the cut surface, which helps prevent rotting. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, and kept warm and moist until roots have developed, which can take several weeks. During this time, it's important to provide bright, indirect light and to avoid overwatering to prevent the rotting of the cutting.
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