Norfolk island pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
Also known as: Star pine, Living christmas tree, House Pine
The Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is a coniferous tree indigenous to Norfolk Island, located in the Pacific Ocean. While it has gained popularity globally as a houseplant, it faces the risk of extinction in its natural habitat.
In This Article
Attributes of Norfolk island pine
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
50 m to 65 m
Spread
6 m to 8 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
Not applicable as it is a conifer and does not produce flowers
Flower Color
Green Red Brown
Images of Norfolk island pine
Quickly Identify Norfolk island pine
1
Distinctive pyramidal silhouette with neat whorls of branches and soft coniferous foliage.
2
Robust, spiny, globose seed cones weighing 10-15 pounds (4.5-6.8 kg) after 18 months.
3
Dark green, awl-shaped leaves in a spiral, scale-like pattern with pointed ends.
4
Hard, gray-brown resinous stem with distinctive whorled branching and herringbone arrangement.
5
Rough, vertically furrowed trunk with exfoliating bark reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter.
Scientific Classification of Norfolk island pine
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Conifers
Order
Pines and allies
Family
Araucaria
Genus
Araucaria
Species
Norfolk island pine
Planting and Growing of Norfolk island pine
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
65-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Norfolk island pine?
When watering Araucaria heterophylla, it's important to ensure the soil is evenly moist. Use about 500 ml of water, enough to soak the topsoil thoroughly without leaving standing water. Ensure any excess drains out completely to prevent waterlogging.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Norfolk island pine?
›
What should I do if my Norfolk island pine is not getting enough water?
›
What are the symptoms of an overwatered Norfolk island pine?
›
How to save an overwatered Norfolk island pine?
›
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Norfolk island pine?
Partial sunlight to full sun allows the Araucaria heterophylla to thrive, promoting healthy growth and dense, vibrant foliage. Regular sunlight exposure supports overall plant vigor.
How much sunlight does it require daily?
›
What if natural sunlight is insufficient?
›
Can it tolerate shade areas?
›
What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Norfolk island pine?
The ideal temperature range for growing Araucaria heterophylla, commonly known as the Norfolk Island Pine, is between 65°F and 75°F. Within this range, the plant can conduct photosynthesis efficiently, ensuring healthy growth. This range mimics its native subtropical environment, providing consistent warmth without causing stress from extreme temperatures.
What Soil is Best for Norfolk island pine?
Araucaria heterophylla thrives in well-drained soil. This requirement ensures that roots do not remain waterlogged, thus preventing root rot. A well-drained mix allows for adequate aeration, supporting robust growth and maintaining the plant's vibrant health. For optimal growth, Araucaria heterophylla demands a nutrient-rich soil environment. Utilizing a loamy soil enriched with organic matter can fulfill this need, promoting vibrant needles and steady growth through enhanced nutrient availability. A soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for Araucaria heterophylla. Maintaining this pH range ensures optimal nutrient uptake, enhancing plant health and promoting lush, green foliage without pH-induced stress.
How to Fertilize Norfolk island pine?
For Araucaria heterophylla, the amount of fertilizer must be kept moderate. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted to half-strength to avoid root burn. For slow-release fertilizers, follow the package instructions carefully. Generally, a balanced 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formulation is adequate. Use approximately 1 tablespoon of granular fertilizer per foot of height, distributed evenly around the base of the plant.
How to Prune Norfolk island pine?
Inspect the tree to find branches that are dead, damaged, or diseased. These branches can be identified by their lack of foliage or unusual coloring, and they should be the first ones to be trimmed. To maintain shape, trim the tips of the branches back to a bud or branch fork. This helps in managing the size and encourages dense, symmetrical branching. Ensure that the natural conical shape of the tree is preserved during pruning. It's best to follow the tree's natural growth pattern, making minimal adjustments rather than large, drastic cuts.
How to Propagate Norfolk island pine plant?
1
Choose a healthy, non-flowering stem from the plant and use pruning shears to cut a segment about 4-6 inches long. The cutting should have several leaves and no sign of disease. Ensure the cut is clean to promote faster rooting.
2
Remove the leaves from the lower third of the stem to reduce moisture loss and promote root development. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage faster root growth.
3
Insert the prepared cutting into a pot filled with potting mix, ensuring that the cut end is buried about two inches deep. Firm the soil around the base of the cutting and water lightly to settle the soil.
How to Repot Norfolk island pine plant?
1
To repot Araucaria heterophylla, watch for signs like roots poking out of the drainage holes or a decline in growth. If the plant appears root-bound, or the soil seems compacted, it’s time to consider repotting to allow room for growth and nutrient uptake.
2
Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, offering 2-3 inches of space for root growth. Ceramic or plastic pots with drainage holes work well. A well-sized pot prevents water logging, encourages healthy root development, and supports the plant’s vertical growth structure.
3
Choose a well-draining potting mix, ideally one with peat, pine bark, and sand. This ensures good aeration and prevents root rot, providing the necessary drainage and nutrient balance, promoting robust growth conditions for the Norfolk Island Pine.
