Cabbage Palm / Cordyline australis

Cordyline australis, more commonly known as Cabbage Palm, is a great plant if you are creating an exotic /  jungle type garden, in temperate Britain. Although not a palm tree, it does have a palm tree 'effect', and looks great in a vibrant coloured border, or planted amongst other exotic, leafy plants. It is hardy to down to about -5c, so is fine for growing in coastal areas, or cities. The best place for them in the garden is a sunny position, and they are drought tolerant. If you would like a Cabbage Palm in your garden, but live in a colder part of the country, it's still possible for them to grow successfully outdoors, but if the winter is colder than average, make sure it is protected with some insulating fleece, to help it get through the coldest nights. You could also consider growing in large containers, and in winter store in a greenhouse, and then bring outside onto the patio or decking in spring.