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Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine)

Norfolk Island Pine, House Pine

AGM Award
Araucaria heterophylla, Norfolk Island Pine, House Pine, Evergreen Conifer, Evergreen Shrub, Evergreen Tree,
Araucaria heterophylla, Norfolk Island Pine, House Pine, Evergreen Conifer, Evergreen Shrub, Evergreen Tree,
Pinus densiflora

Elegant, Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine) is a pyramidal evergreen conifer of symmetrical habit with regular tiers of whorled, horizontal branches radiating outward from the strong, upright trunk. The juvenile leaves are needle-like, incurved, green while the adult leaves are scale-like, incurved, densely arranged, bright dark green. The bark is gray-brown, exfoliating in fine scales. Norfolk Island Pine is dioecious, with the male and female cones on separate trees. The female cones, up to 6 in long (15 cm), are globular, spiny-scaled. The male cones, up to 2 in. long (5 cm), are cylindrical and borne in clusters. Female cones are produced on trees older than 15 years and male cones on trees older than 40 years. A slow-growing, but long-lived species, Araucaria heterophylla is a popular ornamental and avenue tree in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in coastal areas. It is a magnificent focal point. It is also commonly grown in pots and containers as a decorative indoor plant.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 100-200 ft. tall (30-60 m) and 20-25 ft. wide (6-8 m).
  • Performs best in full sun or part shade in moderately fertile, deep, porous, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerant of windy conditions.
  • In containers, use a well drained loam-based potting soil with extra perlite. Water freely during the growing season and keep the compost just moist during the winter. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
  • While it mimics a traditional Christmas tree in appearance, it thrives year-round as a houseplant. Explore 30 enchanting Christmas flowers and plants to add festive charm and natural beauty to your holiday celebrations.
  • The Norfolk Island Pine acts as a natural air purifier, absorbing common household pollutants, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Its lush foliage adds humidity and oxygen to the air, making it an excellent choice for greening indoor spaces.
  • Generally pest and disease free. Keep an eye our for honey fungus.
  • No routine pruning necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
  • Propagate by seed sown in seedbed as soon as ripe; take cuttings of vertical shoot tips in midsummer and root in a cold frame; cuttings of horizontal side branches will not form an upright tree.
  • Native to Norfolk Island.

Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Heat Zones 9 - 11
Climate Zones 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Conifers, Trees
Plant Family Araucariaceae
Genus Araucaria
Common names Norfolk Island Pine
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height 100' - 200' (30.5m - 61m)
Spread 20' - 25' (6.1m - 7.6m)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries
Tolerance Salt
Garden Uses Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Araucaria columnaris (New Caledonian Pine)
Araucaria angustifolia (Brazilian Pine Tree)
Araucaria araucana (Monkey Puzzle)
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Heat Zones 9 - 11
Climate Zones 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Conifers, Trees
Plant Family Araucariaceae
Genus Araucaria
Common names Norfolk Island Pine
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height 100' - 200' (30.5m - 61m)
Spread 20' - 25' (6.1m - 7.6m)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries
Tolerance Salt
Garden Uses Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Not sure which Araucaria to pick?
Compare Now

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