Araliaceae

Cussonia

Cussonia

Genus of trees and shrubs in the family Araliaceae distributed mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and western Indian Ocean islands. African cussonia or "cabbage trees" are distinguished by their large palmate compound leaves, architectural form with a dense crown, and — in many species — a swollen, caudiciform trunk base that stores water and nutrients. Some species such as C. paniculata inhabit high altitudes and tolerate light frost. They are valued in ornamental gardening for their exotic appearance and ability to grow in difficult soils.