Growing Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)

The airy branching habit and light green foliage of Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) are what give this Australian native its appeal. We enjoy it indoors where it remains a well-behaved 2' or so-perfect for bay windows, hall tables, and countertops.

Light: Norfolk Island Pine will tolerate bright indirect light but performs best if given a couple of hours of direct sunlight each day.

Watering: Water when the top 1" of the soil feels dry. Plants prefer slightly more humid conditions and are sensitive to the dry air produced by furnaces in winter. The best way to increase the humidity around your plants is to run a humidifier nearby. You can also set plants in trays filled with pebbles or gravel. Add water to a level just below the tops of the pebbles (if the potting mix in the pots comes in contact with the water, the mix will draw water into the pot, which will cause the mix to become saturated, eventually leading to rot). Refill trays frequently to replace water lost through evaporation. (Our Humiditrays perform the same function without the need for pebbles.)

Temperature: Provide daytime temperatures ranging from 60–70°F.

Fertilizer: Feed monthly from spring through summer with an all-purpose fertilizer mixed at 1/2 strength.