The New Zealand cabbage tree is a native plant thought to have evolved between 3.5 and 30 million years ago. Nowadays, it is classified as one of the most common trees in the country, dominating much of New Zealand’s forest cover. It is often referred to as an emergent tree, which means it grows above most other trees in an area. It doesn’t have a good side, but people tend to focus on their benefits and not the harm they cause to the New Zealand cabbage tree. There are many trees in New Zealand that are protected however cabbage trees doesn’t fall under that category there for you should always take the help of a professional tree removal company. For the long life of the tree and to ensure it is healthy, make sure you hire an excellent arborist

Below are Interesting Facts about New Zealand Cabbage Tree:

#1. Pest Plant

This plant is called a pest because it spreads very quickly, taking over native forests. It has a very shallow root system and sends out underground suckers to create new plants. These plants also send up suckers above ground to produce more plants. The leaves are used as nesting sites by birds which helps to spread the seeds in their droppings. The average life expectancy is around 50 years.

#2. Large Tree

This tree can reach up to 30 meters tall, although 15-20 meters is more common for an adult plant after ten years of growth. New Zealand cabbage trees are often confused for being palm trees because of the large number of leaves that grow at the top of the tree.

#3. Shade

These trees are often used as shade for playgrounds and parks because they provide excellent shelter from sun, wind, and rain. They also do not need any additional watering to keep them healthy, which is one less job for gardeners to worry about.

#4. Firewood

The New Zealand cabbage tree is a very dense wood. It can burn for long periods and provide heat over a more extended period than most other types of firewood.

#5. Māori Uses

Many Māori people believe the New Zealand cabbage tree has spiritual connections and use them in rituals and ceremonies and make carvings and other art pieces.

#6. Leaves and Flowers

The leaves of the New Zealand cabbage tree were once used as bandages to cover wounds. They are also believed to be suitable for protecting cuts from getting infected, which is why people living close to nature still use them today for this purpose (and also to get high). The flowers only appear on the adult trees and are very small. They are used in many types of rituals.

#7. Food

The fruit from the New Zealand cabbage tree is edible but not very tasty or friendly to eat. Many people throw them away because they cannot find a use for them other than for decoration.

#8. Timber & Oil Seeds

Many people collect the seeds because they are used to make many different oils and produce a kind of timber with very little sap, making it suitable for turning into furniture. Airlines often use the oil from the seed to power their planes because it burns without creating smoke, leaving no fingerprints behind.

Conclusion

The New Zealand cabbage tree is one of the most exciting plants in New Zealand because it’s used for many different things around the country. It also has a fascinating history, which was thought to have started somewhere between 3.5 and 30 million years ago.

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