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Plant Profiles / Norfolk Island pine
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Norfolk Island pine
Araucaria heterophylla · Norfolk pine
A symmetrical conifer with soft, tiered branches. A living Christmas tree indoors and a tough coastal tree outdoors.
Bright lightLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright light
ShadeFull sun
Bright.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Lightly moist.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
5–35°C (41–95°F)
CoolWarm
Light frost.
Growth
Slow in pots
SlowFast
1–3 m in pots.
Soil
Free-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring–summer
RarelyOften
Balanced.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Mildly irritating.
About this plant
Native to Norfolk Island. Young plants are popular indoors; it grows huge in the ground.
Best spots
Bright rooms, coastal balconies and courtyards.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Araucaria heterophylla |
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Origin | Norfolk Island |
| Plant type | Conifer |
| Mature size | 1–3 m in pots |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Soft needles |
| Toxicity | Low |
| Propagation | Seed |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Rotate
Active growthRotate
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Dropping branches | Low light or dry. |
| Leaning | Rotate. |
| Brown | Dry air. |
| Mites | Hose. |
| Sparse | Low light. |
Common questions
Christmas tree?
Yes.
Outdoor?
Yes.
Pet safe?
Mostly.
Prune?
No.
