Medium to bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well), with some direct morning sun acceptable. Insufficient light causes needle drop and loose, sparse growth. Rotate the pot slightly each week to maintain its symmetrical shape.Light

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. water thoroughly (water until it drains out the bottom. Empty the saucer after 30 minutes so the roots are not sitting in water), let excess drain fully, and discard standing water from saucers after 15 minutes. Reduce watering in winter. Underwatering causes brown, crispy needles; overwatering causes yellowing drooping branches.Water

Prefers relative humidity above 50%. Dry indoor air, especially in heated homes in winter, causes brown branch tips. Mist twice daily, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier nearby.Humidity

Grows best at 60-70 F (15-21 C) during the day and 50-65 F at night. Reduce to the cooler end in winter for rest. Cannot tolerate below 35 F (1 C). Keep away from heating and AC vents.Temperature

moderateDifficulty

Norfolk Island Pine

Araucaria heterophylla

Moderate

This is not a pine at all, but a living relic from a prehistoric plant family that dominated the Jurassic period and largely vanished from the northern hemisphere. Indoors it grows as a slow, symmetrical, tiered miniature tree that people routinely draft into service as a living Christmas tree. Give it bright light and humidity and it will stay elegant for decades.

Care Guide

How to grow Norfolk Island Pine

Light

Medium to bright indirect light

Water

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.

Humidity

50%

Temperature

Grows best at 60-70 F

Soil

Sandy, slightly acidic mix with

Propagation

Propagation from cuttings is tricky:

Common Problems

Brown needle tips indicate low

Did You Know

Fun Facts

In its native Norfolk Island habitat, Araucaria heterophylla can reach 200 feet tall with trunks swelling to 10 feet in diameter - a far cry from the 3-foot Christmas tree you pick up at the garden center.

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. One of the few large indoor trees that is completely pet-safe.

Sources

Norfolk Island Pine Houseplant - New York Botanical Garden (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
Norfolk Island Pine Houseplant - New York Botanical Garden (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
Araucaria heterophylla - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension
Araucaria heterophylla - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension
Norfolk Island Pine - UConn Home and Garden Education Center (opens in new tab)University Extension
Norfolk Island Pine - UConn Home and Garden Education Center (opens in new tab)University Extension
The Norfolk Island Pine - Illinois Extension UIUC (opens in new tab)University Extension
The Norfolk Island Pine - Illinois Extension UIUC (opens in new tab)University Extension