Norfolk island pine - Araucaria heterophylla (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Norfolk island pine

Also known as: Star pine, Living christmas tree, House Pine

Norfolk island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is a conifer tree native to Norfolk Island, a small island in the Pacific Islands. Now, it is a popular houseplant all around the world. However, norfolk island pine is in danger of dying out in the wild.

Scientific classification

Species

Norfolk island pine (Araucaria heterophylla)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

50 m to 65 m

Plant Height

6 m to 8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Green, Red, Brown

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Norfolk island pine

Distribution of Norfolk island pine

Distribution Map

Norfolk island pine is a vulnerable species native only to coastal headlines and scrubland groves on Norfolk Island, and it is found in just a few other places, namely, Bangladesh, UK, and New Zealand's North Island.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Norfolk island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is a popular evergreen tree that offers year-round garden interest with its attractive evergreen needles and pointed upright crown. However, this is a very tall tree that can crowd out small gardens. Norfolk island pine is best grown as a shade or specimen tree on large lawns and in parks and landscapes. Good plants that grow in the same conditions include Boston fern and satin picta.

Symbolism

symbol of Norfolk Island

Interesting Facts

Often given as a gift around the holidays, the norfolk island pine is often decorated as a small Christmas tree. A slow grower, this little tree can be container grown for years. Florida gardeners will sometimes plant these in their yard, but caution should be taken as the norfolk island pine does not withstand strong winds and may topple over during a tropical storm or hurricane.

Name Story

Norfolk island pine: It is as its common name Norfolk Island pine or Norfolk pine implies that the tree is endemic to Norfolk Island, a small island in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and New Caledonia, about 1440 km east of Sydney, Australia.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Norfolk island pine

Distinctive pyramidal silhouette with neat whorls of branches and soft coniferous foliage.

Robust, spiny, globose seed cones weighing 10-15 pounds (4.5-6.8 kg) after 18 months.

Dark green, awl-shaped leaves in a spiral, scale-like pattern with pointed ends.

Hard, gray-brown resinous stem with distinctive whorled branching and herringbone arrangement.

Rough, vertically furrowed trunk with exfoliating bark reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Norfolk island pine

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from Norfolk Island's humid subtropical climate, norfolk island pine thrives in consistent moisture and humidity. Water every 1-2 weeks, letting the soil dry slightly in between. Regular misting is beneficial, particularly indoors, to maintain the favored ambient humidity levels.

Fertilize: For robust growth, fertilize norfolk island pine every three months with balanced, slow-release fertilizer during spring and summer. Monthly liquid feeds are beneficial, but avoid overfertilization. Water norfolk island pine before fertilizing and adjust applications in fall and winter to protect roots and ensure healthy development.

Pruning: Norfolk island pine is an evergreen conifer with a symmetrical shape and soft, needle-like leaves. Prune in early to late winter, focusing on dead branches. Light trimming fosters density and air circulation, while avoiding heavy pruning to prevent stress due to its slow growth rate.

Propagation: Norfolk island pine thrives for its attractive foliage and low maintenance. Propagation via semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants is ideal. Use rooting hormone in well-draining soil, maintain high humidity, and provide indirect light. Ensure consistent moisture without overwatering. Roots develop in weeks; acclimatize before transplanting.

Repotting: Repot norfolk island pine every 2-3 years in a pot 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) wider to support its vertical growth. Spring is the best time for repotting. After repotting, keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight to promote healthy, symmetrical growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free