Also known as Araucaria · Harbert · House Pine
Araucaria heterophylla, commonly known as Norfolk Island Pine, is an evergreen conifer native to Norfolk Island. It features soft, needle-like foliage on tiered branches.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light to full sun
80% intensity
Water thoroughly when topsoil is dry
60% intensity
Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral.
50% intensity
Warm, consistent temperatures
70% intensity
10-24 °C
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed during growing season
60% intensity
Spring-Summer
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency slightly during winter months when growth naturally slows.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can be detrimental to its health and lead to fungal issues. Consistent moisture is key, but not soggy.
Norfolk Island Pines generally require minimal pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing branches to maintain appearance and plant health.
Avoid cutting the central leader, as this can ruin the plant's natural pyramidal shape.
Lower branches can be removed if desired for a tree-like form, but this is usually not necessary and can impact the plant's overall vigor.
Propagation is primarily done by seed, which can be challenging for home growers due to specific germination requirements and the need for fresh seeds.
Cuttings are generally difficult to root successfully and often fail. For most enthusiasts, purchasing a young plant from a nursery is the most reliable and practical method to acquire a Norfolk Island Pine.
Repot young Norfolk Island Pines every 2-3 years, or when they become root-bound, into a pot one size larger.
Mature plants prefer to be slightly root-bound and may only need repotting every 3-5 years, or simply refresh the top layer of soil. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring to allow the plant to establish in its new home during active growth.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
Where Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Genus | Araucaria |
| Species | Araucaria heterophylla |
Similar in genus Araucaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
