Cabbage Palm, Australian Palm, Gippsland Palm

Livistona australis

Physical Characteristics

Livistona australis is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - Victoria.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young unfolded leaves - raw or cooked[46, 61, 177]. The young and tender leaves are eaten like cabbages[2]. The young leaf buds are often used but, since the plants are unable to produce side-shoots, this effectively kills the plant[144, 154].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known