21 Beautiful Ways to Style Cabbage Ware (Plus the History Behind These Iconic Plates)

ashlina kaposta March 13, 2026

There are certain pieces of tableware that instantly transport you to a different time. For some people it's blue and white china, for others it's delicate floral tea sets. But for me, it's cabbage ware.

Growing up, my grandmother had an entire collection of these cabbage plates that came out every Easter. I remember being completely fascinated by them as a child — the sculpted leaves, the vibrant greens, the way the plates looked like they had been plucked straight from a garden. Our last name is Kaposta, which in Hungarian literally means cabbage, so the tradition always felt especially meaningful.

I desperately wanted those plates someday.

Unfortunately, I never inherited them. They ended up going to a distant relative, and I remember feeling surprisingly heartbroken about it at the time. But in a funny twist of fate, cabbage ware has recently come roaring back into style, appearing everywhere from vintage shops to spring tablescapes on Pinterest.

And honestly, I couldn't be happier about it.

Today I'm sharing the complete guide to cabbage ware — the fascinating history behind these iconic dishes, the designers who made them famous, how to start your own collection, and of course, beautiful ways to style cabbage plates for spring entertaining.

In This Guide:
• What is Cabbage Ware?
• The History of Cabbage Ware
• Famous Designers and Makers
• Why Cabbage Ware Is Trending Again
• 21 Beautiful Ways to Style and Display Cabbage Ware
• A Collector’s Guide to Cabbage Plates
• Where to Buy Cabbage Ware

What Is Cabbage Ware?

Cabbage ware refers to a style of ceramic or earthenware dishes shaped like cabbage leaves, often glazed in vibrant green tones with sculptural leaf details.

These whimsical plates, bowls, and serving dishes are designed to resemble cabbage heads, lettuce leaves, or other garden vegetables.

Typical cabbage ware pieces include:

• Dinner plates
• Salad plates
• Soup bowls
• Serving platters
• Tureens
• Vegetable dishes
• Butter dishes

The look is playful yet elegant — perfect for garden parties, Easter dinners, and spring entertaining.

Because of their sculptural form and vibrant colors, cabbage plates often double as decorative objects, not just functional dinnerware.

The History of Cabbage Ware

Cabbage ware has a surprisingly rich history that dates back centuries.

The style originated in 18th-century Europe, where ceramicists began experimenting with naturalistic forms inspired by fruits, vegetables, and plants.

At the time, these whimsical dishes were considered luxurious novelty items. Aristocratic households often displayed them during elaborate meals as conversation pieces.

However, cabbage ware truly became iconic thanks to Portuguese ceramic artist Bordallo Pinheiro in the late 1800s.

Pinheiro revolutionized ceramic design by creating beautifully sculpted pottery inspired by nature. His cabbage plates became famous for their incredible realism — each piece looked like a freshly harvested cabbage leaf.

The designs were playful, artistic, and completely different from the formal china patterns that dominated European tables at the time.

More than a century later, his cabbage ware designs are still produced today and remain among the most collectible.

Part of the enduring appeal of cabbage ware is its artistry. Each piece transforms an ordinary vegetable into a beautifully sculpted ceramic object, blurring the line between functional tableware and decorative art.

cabbage ware colorful collection by Bordallo Pinheiro — gorgeous cabbage ware collection by Tiffany

Cabbage Ware Comes in Many Colors

While the most recognizable cabbage plates are the classic leafy green versions, many collectors are surprised to learn that cabbage ware has been produced in a wide range of colors. Portuguese ceramic company Bordallo Pinheiro, one of the most famous makers of cabbage ware, has created collections in shades like pink, coral, yellow, blue, and cream in addition to the traditional greens.

Some collectors even enjoy displaying their pieces in color gradients, arranging plates from soft pastels to deeper tones inside cabinets or hutches. This colorful variation adds another layer of charm to cabbage ware and makes collecting these sculptural dishes even more fun.

I just love the combination of pink and green. It’s probably my most favorite, aside from pink and lilac. Obviously the green cabbage plates are my favorite. Because of the Palm Beach table style staple, Tori Burch created a line of the lettuce/cabbage plates but you can also get them at Anthropologie, for a fraction of the price. I love the pink ones too! It literally just makes my heart so happy!

HOT TIP: Pink and green are the colors of the heart chakra. Surrounding yourself with the colors of the heart chakra, open it up and call in that energy. Think happiness, growth, nourishment, healing and love of course. Who wouldn’t want the energy of love at their Easter table?

Learn more about using COLOR to heal you and your home in my workshop, HIGH VIBE HOME!

Famous Cabbage Ware Designers & Makers

Several designers and brands have become synonymous with cabbage ware.

Bordallo Pinheiro

The most famous cabbage ware creator.

Portuguese artist Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro created the iconic cabbage leaf designs in the late 19th century, and the brand still produces them today.

Their pieces are known for:

• extremely detailed sculpting
• vibrant glazes
• whimsical personality

They remain one of the most collectible cabbage ware makers in the world.

Dodie Thayer (Palm Beach Cabbage Ware)

Another extremely famous cabbage plate creator is Dodie Thayer, often referred to as the "Pottery Queen of Palm Beach."

Her cabbage plates became a favorite among Palm Beach socialites in the 1960s.

At one point, Jacqueline Kennedy reportedly owned dozens of them.

Thayer's pieces are especially collectible today and are associated with the Palm Beach preppy entertaining aesthetic.

Vintage Majolica Cabbage Ware

Majolica ceramics also contributed to the cabbage ware trend.

These pieces often feature:

• rich glazes
• detailed leaf textures
• deeper greens and earthy tones

Antique majolica cabbage dishes are highly sought after by collectors.

Why Cabbage Ware Is Trending Again

Cabbage plates have experienced a huge resurgence recently, especially on Pinterest and Instagram.

There are several reasons why.

Garden-Inspired Tablescapes

People are leaning toward natural, organic entertaining styles. Cabbage ware fits perfectly with the garden party aesthetic.

Vintage Decor Revival

Vintage tableware has become extremely popular again, especially unique collectible pieces.

Palm Beach Style Influence

The Palm Beach aesthetic — colorful, playful, slightly whimsical — has brought cabbage plates back into the spotlight.

Seasonal Spring Decor

Cabbage dishes feel incredibly appropriate for:

• Easter tables
• spring brunches
• garden lunches
• outdoor entertaining

Cabbage ware is especially popular for spring and Easter entertaining. The sculptural green leaves pair beautifully with fresh flowers, pastel linens, and garden-inspired centerpieces, making cabbage plates a natural choice for Easter brunch tables.

pink and green cabbage ware copy — image source

How to Start a Cabbage Ware Collection

If you're interested in collecting cabbage ware, the good news is there are plenty of places to find it.

Start by looking at:

• vintage shops
• antique markets
• estate sales
• Etsy
• eBay

You can also purchase new cabbage ware pieces from brands like Bordallo Pinheiro.

Many collectors enjoy mixing vintage and new pieces, which creates a layered, collected look.

cabbage ware table setting — image source

How to Style Cabbage Ware on a Table

One of the reasons cabbage plates are so beloved is that they instantly make a table feel joyful and seasonal.

Here are some beautiful ways to style them.

cabbage ware dinner table decor — image source

Classic Spring Table

Pair cabbage plates with:

• white linens
• fresh tulips
• woven chargers
• pastel napkins

• bamboo flatware

This creates a fresh, elegant spring table.

Garden Party Style

Layer cabbage plates with:

• rattan placemats
• floral tablecloths
• mismatched vintage glassware

The result feels charming and collected.

pink and green cabbageware — image source

cabbageware collection — image & styling by @nellhills

Palm Beach Chic

For a more colorful look, combine pink or green cabbage plates with:

• pink table linens
• gold flatware
• bamboo chargers
• colorful napkins

This look is playful and sophisticated.

Easter Tablescape

Cabbage plates are practically made for Easter.

Style them with:

• dyed eggs
• bunny figurines
• fresh greenery
• linen napkins tied with ribbon

The natural shapes create a perfect seasonal moment.

Beautiful Cabbage Ware DISPLAY Ideas

CABBAGE WARE PLATE WALLS:

Create a Cabbage Plate Wall in the Kitchen

One of the most charming ways to display cabbage ware is by hanging the plates directly on a kitchen wall or backsplash. The sculptural leaf shapes almost look like botanical art, turning everyday dishware into a decorative focal point. Group plates in different sizes to create an organic, garden-inspired arrangement that feels playful yet curated.

Create a Dramatic Cabbage Ware Gallery Wall

Cabbage Plate Gallery Wall Inspiration — image via @mag.gieshoep.herd

For collectors who truly love cabbage ware, turning your plates into a full gallery wall creates a breathtaking focal point. By arranging plates in varying sizes across a large wall, you can create an organic, garden-like pattern that feels playful and artistic. The vibrant greens pop beautifully against a neutral wall and pair especially well with antique furniture, gilded mirrors, and lush plants.

Style a Symmetrical Cabbage Ware Plate Wall

For a more polished and structured look, try arranging cabbage plates in a symmetrical gallery wall. Mixing different cabbage and leaf-shaped plates while keeping the layout balanced creates a display that feels both elegant and playful. The layered shades of green add texture and depth against a soft wall color, making the collection feel almost like botanical artwork. This approach works beautifully in dining rooms, where the plates can double as both decor and conversation pieces during gatherings.

Mix Cabbage Ware with Other Botanical Plates

One beautiful way to display cabbage ware is by mixing it with other botanical-inspired plates and ceramics. Combining cabbage plates with lettuce, leaf, and floral designs creates a layered, collected look that feels organic and curated over time. When arranged together on a wall, the varying textures, shades of green, and natural motifs create a display that almost resembles a garden climbing up the wall. This styling approach works especially well in kitchens or dining areas where vintage dishware becomes part of the decor.

Related Reading: Oyster plate walls you will love

Mix Cabbage Ware with Classic Blue and White China

cabbage ware and blue white china plate wall — image source

For a layered, collected look, try pairing cabbage ware with traditional blue and white china. The rich greens of cabbage plates create a beautiful contrast against classic porcelain patterns, adding depth and visual interest to a plate wall. Mixing different styles of dishes also gives the display a curated, vintage feel—as if the collection has been thoughtfully gathered over many years. This combination works especially well in dining rooms or kitchens where both color and pattern can shine together.

Frame a Mirror with Cabbage Ware Plates

Cabbage plates can also be used to beautifully frame architectural elements like mirrors. Arranging the plates around a mirror creates a charming focal point that feels both decorative and intentional. The rich green tones add depth and texture while complementing natural materials like wicker lamps, bamboo frames, and vintage textiles.

This styling approach works especially well in entryways, dining rooms, or hallways where a small collection of cabbage ware can instantly elevate the space and bring a touch of garden-inspired elegance indoors.

CABBAGE WARE COLLECTION DISPLAYS:

Display Your Cabbage Ware Collection in an Open Hutch

One of the most beautiful ways to showcase cabbage ware is by styling it inside a hutch or open shelving cabinet. The layered greens of the plates, bowls, pitchers, and serving pieces create a rich, collected look that feels both vintage and timeless.

Try arranging pieces by height and shape—stacking plates, placing taller pitchers toward the back, and letting statement pieces like tureens or large bowls anchor the shelves. When displayed against warm wood shelving like this, the vibrant green glazes stand out beautifully and give the entire space a charming, garden-inspired feel.

Style Cabbage Plates as the Backdrop in a Hutch

One of the easiest ways to display cabbage ware inside a cabinet or hutch is by using the plates as a backdrop behind other decorative pieces. Stand the cabbage plates upright along the back of each shelf, then layer in pitchers, bowls, candles, or small vintage objects in front.

This creates depth while allowing the intricate leaf patterns to still be visible. The vibrant green plates instantly add color and texture, while the neutral pottery and simple accessories keep the overall display feeling balanced and thoughtfully styled.

Create a Layered Cabbage Ware Display on Open Shelving

Open shelving is a beautiful way to showcase a growing cabbage ware collection. By layering different pieces—plates, bowls, serving dishes, and pitchers—you can create a display that feels abundant and full of texture.

Try stacking plates toward the back and placing sculptural pieces like cabbage bowls or tureens toward the front so their unique shapes stand out.

Mixing shades of green and varying leaf patterns adds depth, while incorporating a few plants or natural elements helps the entire display feel like a lush garden brought indoors.

Mix white and green cabbage ware for impact

gorgeous collection by @theironvictorian

Open shelving is one of the most charming ways to showcase cabbage ware, especially when the pieces are arranged in a thoughtful, layered display. Stand cabbage plates upright along the back of each shelf and mix in place bowls, cups, and serving pieces in front to add depth and dimension.

Mixing classic green cabbage ware with white cabbage ware pieces keeps the display feeling fresh and balanced while allowing the beautiful leaf textures to stand out.

Display Cabbage Ware on a Tiered Stand

cabbage plate display — All about vignettes

A tiered stand is a beautiful way to showcase cabbage ware while keeping the pieces neatly organized. Stacking plates and bowls on different levels allows each piece to be seen while creating a vertical display that feels both functional and decorative.

This approach works especially well on a kitchen counter, sideboard, or buffet where the sculptural leaf shapes can really shine. The layered arrangement highlights the intricate textures of the cabbage designs while turning the collection into an eye-catching focal point.

Why I Love Cabbage Ware

Even though I never inherited my grandmother's cabbage plates, they still hold a special place in my heart.

They remind me of spring holidays, family traditions, and the magic of a beautifully set table.

And honestly, there is something incredibly joyful about plates shaped like cabbage leaves.

They feel whimsical and nostalgic, but also completely timeless.

Every time I see them, I'm reminded that the most beautiful homes and tables are often the ones filled with objects that tell a story.

CABBAGE WARE FAQ

Why are cabbage plates popular?

Cabbage plates are popular because they combine whimsical design with vintage charm. Their sculptural leaf shape makes them perfect for spring entertaining and garden party tablescapes.

Who invented cabbage ware?

Portuguese ceramic artist Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro popularized cabbage ware in the late 1800s.

Is cabbage ware collectible?

Yes. Vintage cabbage ware — especially pieces from Bordallo Pinheiro or Dodie Thayer — can be highly collectible.

Is cabbage ware dishwasher safe?

Some modern pieces are dishwasher safe, but many vintage pieces should be hand washed to protect the glaze.

What occasions are cabbage plates best for?

They are especially popular for:

• Easter tables
• spring brunches
• garden parties
• outdoor entertaining

Palm Beach Style Home Decor: Why Brass Palm Trees Are the Ultimate Statement Piece

ashlina kaposta October 28, 2025

Brass Palm Tree Decor: The Palm Beach Glamour Statement That Never Really Left

There are certain objects that never feel like just décor. They feel collected. Intentional. Almost symbolic.

For me, oversized brass palm trees have always lived in that category.

They’re sculptural without trying too hard. Dramatic, but somehow still light. They catch the light in a room in a way that feels warm rather than flashy. And if you’ve ever spotted one in a vintage store — heavy, slightly patinated, its fronds fanning outward in that unmistakable feathery silhouette — you know exactly what I mean.

What started years ago as a chic decorating idea has quietly become something more timeless. Brass palm trees are reappearing in Palm Beach interiors, Hollywood Regency revivals, grand millennial spaces, and even modern organic homes that crave a bit of soul.

In Palm Beach style home decor, few pieces feel as iconic as an oversized brass palm tree.

So today, I want to go deeper.

Let’s talk about the history of brass palm tree décor, why it feels so inherently luxurious, how to style oversized versions beautifully, and why this tropical-glam accent continues to feel so relevant.

The History of Brass Palm Trees in Interior Design

Oversized brass palm trees are most commonly associated with the glamour-forward design movement of the 1960s through the 1980s — particularly within the Hollywood Regency aesthetic. This style, influenced heavily by theatrical interiors and Palm Beach opulence, celebrated shine, scale, and sculptural statement pieces.

Designers like Dorothy Draper helped define a dramatic approach to interiors in Palm Beach and beyond. Her bold use of lacquer, brass, and exaggerated motifs laid the groundwork for decorative objects that felt glamorous rather than minimal.

Palm trees, in particular, became emblematic of:

Exotic leisure
Resort living
Sunshine and escape
Coastal aristocratic glamour

By the 1970s, brass palm tree sculptures — sometimes tabletop-sized, sometimes nearly floor-to-ceiling — began appearing in high-end homes and luxury hotels. They were heavy. Substantial. Often handcrafted. Their fronds were textured to mimic the feathered softness of real palm leaves, which gave them movement and dimension.

Later designers like Jonathan Adler reinterpreted this kind of decorative whimsy for contemporary spaces, bringing brass palm motifs back into modern interiors.

And while trends shift, the essence of the brass palm tree never really disappeared. It simply became more refined.

A few days ago, I found these awesome brass and lucite palm tree sculptures and I'm feeling like I must have one for my dining table. They would give such fun vibes in that space.

Why Brass Palm Trees Feel So Palm Beach

If there is one place that truly understands the drama of a brass palm tree, it’s Palm Beach.

Palm Beach design has always balanced elegance with tropical exuberance. It is not shy. It is not overly restrained. But it is polished.

Oversized brass palm trees fit beautifully into this world because they embody:

Shine without coldness
Glamour without clutter
Tropical energy without kitsch

The feathery quality of the fronds softens the metallic structure. The gold-toned brass warms the space. And when scaled properly — especially in oversized versions like the ones you’ve featured — they become architectural rather than ornamental.

In Palm Beach interiors, they’re often paired with:

Marble consoles
White or cream upholstery
Bamboo or rattan details
Coral, blush, or sea-glass accents
Statement lighting

It’s a lifestyle aesthetic. Resort-inspired but deeply intentional.

The Details: Why the Texture Matters

One of the most beautiful things about oversized brass palm trees is the texture.

Unlike flat metallic decor, the fronds are often delicately etched, layered, and slightly curved. They mimic the soft, feathery nature of real palm leaves — but in metal. This contrast creates visual intrigue.

The texture does three important things in a space:

It catches light from multiple angles, creating subtle shimmer.
It adds depth, preventing the piece from feeling heavy.
It softens the boldness of the metallic finish.

When styled near natural materials like linen, travertine, or woven baskets, the interplay of organic and metallic textures creates a layered, collected feeling.

It’s not about shine for the sake of shine. It’s about movement.

Look how chic this brass palm tree chandelier is. I love what's going on here. Lighting is a genius move, Illuminating the energy of the brass palm tree symbol probably makes for very good vibes. Perhaps I need a palm tree light, too?

Oversized Brass Palm Trees as Statement Pieces

Large-scale brass palm trees make a statement in a way that smaller decorative objects simply cannot.

Oversized versions can function as:

Floor sculptures
Entryway anchors
Fireplace statement pieces
Staircase accents
Even chandelier forms

Yes — modern iterations now include brass palm tree chandeliers, where the fronds radiate outward like a sunburst. These feel particularly Palm Beach and lean heavily into that glamorous resort aesthetic.

If you find one at a vintage store, especially a large one, it’s worth examining carefully. Many original pieces are:

Surprisingly heavy
Solid brass rather than plated
Slightly imperfect in casting (which adds character)
Beautifully patinated over time

And if you prefer new versions, many brands now reinterpret the look in lighter materials while maintaining the visual drama.

My boys over at Consort Design know whats up, this brass palm lamp just radiates chic. You can get your own brass palm tree lamp right here.

How to Style an Oversized Brass Palm Tree

The key to styling an oversized brass palm tree beautifully is restraint. It is already dramatic. It does not need competition.

In an Entryway

Place it beside a marble or lacquered console. Keep the rest of the styling minimal — perhaps stacked books and a single vase. Let the palm tree be the sculpture that greets guests.

In a Living Room Corner

If you have a blank corner that feels underwhelming, a tall brass palm tree can create height and dimension without adding bulk. It draws the eye upward and introduces warmth.

As a Bar Cart Accent

Brass palm trees feel inherently celebratory. Styled near glassware or crystal decanters, they enhance that old-world glamour.

Paired with Modern Minimalism

Even in a contemporary space, one oversized brass palm tree can serve as the single nod to opulence. Paired with neutral upholstery and clean lines, it becomes a focal art piece rather than a theme.

Where to Find Brass Palm Trees Today

If you’re sourcing one, here’s where to look:

Vintage and antique stores
Estate sales
Palm Beach resale boutiques
Chairish
Etsy
eBay
Facebook Marketplace

Search terms that work well include:

“Oversized brass palm tree sculpture”
“Hollywood Regency brass palm”
“Palm Beach brass decor”

New versions can also be found through contemporary home brands that specialize in glam or resort-inspired interiors.

palm-tree-gold-taper-candle-holder (1).jpg

I'm totally into these adorable brass candle sticks. You can get these beauties here. They blend effortlessly into chic decor. Look how glam it looks on top of a stack of black and white books.

Quite possibly my favorite idea for a brass palm is in the office, like this gorgeous space I found via ThouSwell.

The Symbolism of the Palm Tree

Palm trees have long symbolized:

Resilience
Prosperity
Victory
Paradise

In many cultures, the palm represents endurance — the ability to bend without breaking.

There’s something beautiful about bringing that symbolism into your home in sculptural form.

Brass, as a warm metal, carries its own association with abundance and prosperity. When combined with the palm motif, it feels quietly powerful.

It’s more than decoration. It’s energy.

Palm Beach Glam

Oversized brass palm trees may have surged in popularity decades ago, but they were never just a passing trend.

They represent a mood. A lifestyle. A reverence for glamour that doesn’t apologize for itself.

In a world where minimalism has dominated for years, there is something refreshing about allowing one object to be bold, sculptural, and radiant.

A brass palm tree catches the light in a room — and in many ways, it reminds us to do the same.

Love all the palm and brass happening in this dining space. via Living etc.

Love the drama of this powder blue and red room via Arch Digest. So very French.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brass Palm Tree Decor

Include 5–7 questions like:

Are brass palm trees still in style?
Yes — especially in Palm Beach style and Hollywood Regency interiors. When styled with restraint, they feel timeless rather than trendy.

Where can I buy an oversized brass palm tree?
Vintage stores, estate sales, Chairish, Etsy, and curated resale boutiques often carry authentic pieces.

Is brass palm tree decor Hollywood Regency?
Yes. It became popular during the Hollywood Regency era and is associated with glamour-forward interiors.

How do you decorate in Palm Beach style?
Palm Beach style home decor combines tropical motifs, brass accents, glossy finishes, and resort-inspired elegance.

How do you clean vintage brass decor?
Use gentle brass cleaner sparingly and preserve patina when possible.

Palm Beach style home decor is not about subtlety — it’s about presence. An oversized brass palm tree captures that presence effortlessly. It reflects light, anchors a space, and carries the quiet confidence of a home that understands glamour. And in a world of minimal beige, that kind of sculptural drama feels refreshing.

ASHLINA KAPOSTA

… A creative, work from home, mom-entrepreneur who is passionate about all things blissful living. Here you’ll find musings on decorating, slow living, self-development, health & wellness, manifestation, femininity, mindset & entrepreneurship.

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