Cabbage Tree
pseudopanax lessonii
Also known as: ["Cabbage Tree","Pseudopanax lessonii"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to New Zealand, known for its distinctive foliage and structural form.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Pseudopanax |
| Botanical Name: | Pseudopanax lessonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter; can include peat, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust for season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good structure; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; softwood cuttings root more readily than hardwood.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plant material; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth; prune to maintain desired size.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth first; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim root bound areas; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; vulnerable to frost damage in cold climates.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest the berries of Pseudopanax lessonii. The berries contain compounds that can cause mild irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the berries of Pseudopanax lessonii. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should still be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPseudopanax lessonii, commonly known as the coastal five-finger, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The berries are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pseudopanax lessonii suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces.
Q: Does Pseudopanax lessonii require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
Q: How fast does Pseudopanax lessonii grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching its mature height over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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