Norfolk Island Pine
Araucaria heterophylla
Norfolk Island Pine is a tiered evergreen conifer with soft bright green needles. It is not a true pine. As a houseplant it stays a manageable indoor tree and often doubles as a living holiday tree.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Ingestion of needles can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and lethargy in cats and dogs. The sharp needles can also cause physical irritation to the digestive tract.
Care Notes
Light
Give bright, indirect light from a south or west window when possible. Rotate the pot a quarter turn each week so the tree grows evenly instead of leaning toward the light.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry, and use a pot with drainage holes. Crispy brown needles often mean the plant is too dry.
Soil
Use a well-draining peat-based mix that leans slightly acidic. Heavy soil that stays wet leads to root rot.
Humidity and Temperature
This island native needs higher humidity. Use a humidifier, mist the foliage, or set the pot on a pebble tray. Prefer 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and keep the plant away from cold drafts, heat vents, and fireplaces.
Common Issues
Needle drop often follows dry air, sudden temperature swings, or underwatering. Yellowing can mean overwatering.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20)
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with a slightly acidic pH.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3-8 feet tall indoors
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Primarily via seeds; terminal branch cuttings are possible but extremely difficult to root for non-professionals.
Common Varieties
Usually sold as the straight species; occasionally more compact cultivars or variegated forms exist in specialist collections.
A symmetrical tiered habit with soft needle-like bright green foliage. Rare forms may be more compact or show creamy-white variegation.