Norfolk Island Araucaria
Araucaria heterophylla · Norfolk Island Pine · Star Pine · Norfolk PineUSDA | Grow Zone
9-11Outdoors all year in zones 9 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- Up to 50 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
The Norfolk Island Pine, also known as Araucaria heterophylla, is a stunning evergreen native to Norfolk Island. Its unique, symmetrical shape and soft, needle-like leaves make it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
Ask Vesper about Norfolk Island Araucaria
Ideal temperature
65-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- Up to 50 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Water the Norfolk Island Pine when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
In winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant enters dormancy. Signs of over-watering include yellowing needles and root rot, while under-watering may cause browning needle tips and drooping branches.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of light daily. Avoid placing it in low-light conditions, as this can lead to leggy growth and poor health.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is essential, ideally with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.
A mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
Norfolk Island Pines prefer humidity levels of 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the plant regularly or use a humidity tray. Signs of low humidity include browning needle tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
This plant thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and is hardy in zones 9-11.
It does not tolerate frost well and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing needles and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune in late spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing lower branches can encourage upward growth.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot.
Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant, refresh the soil, and place it in the new pot.
Propagation
Propagation is typically done through seeds, which should be sown in a well-draining mix.
Best timing is in spring. Soak the seeds for 24 hours before planting, then cover lightly with soil and keep moist until germination occurs, which may take several weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing needles
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
Browning needle tips
Why it happens
Typically a sign of low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity through misting or a humidity tray and adjust watering frequency.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light exposure.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by over-watering and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again and consider repotting into fresh soil.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Can be due to sudden temperature changes or stress.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent temperatures and avoid drafts.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering as the plant resumes growth and consider fertilizing every 4-6 weeks. Prune any dead branches to encourage new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives enough light and humidity. Water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering frequency as the plant prepares for dormancy. Stop fertilizing and monitor for any signs of stress as temperatures drop.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location away from drafts. Reduce watering and maintain humidity to prevent needle drop.
Toxicity & Safety
Norfolk Island Pine is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
Why are my Norfolk Island Pine's leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure you are allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
How often should I water my Norfolk Island Pine?
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. Adjust frequency based on seasonal changes and humidity levels.
What light conditions are best for Norfolk Island Pine?
This plant prefers bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours a day. Avoid low-light conditions to prevent leggy growth.
How do I increase humidity for my Norfolk Island Pine?
Increase humidity by misting the plant regularly or placing it on a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles.
When should I repot my Norfolk Island Pine?
Repot every 2-3 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter.
Is Norfolk Island Pine toxic to pets?
No, Norfolk Island Pine is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for homes with animals.
What temperature range is ideal for Norfolk Island Pine?
The ideal temperature range is between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect it from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) to prevent damage.
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