Cabbage palm

A good ingredient for a jungly sub-tropical garden or red border, the cabbage palm is a striking foliage plant with its long, thin, arching, purple leaves. It is usually grown in a large container, making a good contrast with the tall yellow Lilium 'Citronella', though it can also be used as summer bedding around the likes of a taller, flamboyant clump of cannas. Since it isn't totally hardy, it must be kept in a frost-free place over winter. If being grown outside permanently, it needs a sheltered hot spot, and the leaves will have to be covered over winter.