Growing Norfolk Island Pine Indoors
A Year-Round Accent Plant that Doubles as a Living Christmas Tree
Aug 29, 2008
This tree is native to a small island in the South Pacific. Its soft green foliage and graceful, sweeping branches make it a stately accent for homes. Its branches are distinctive for their habit of extending at an almost perfect 90 degree angle from the trunk. Foliage is scale-like and branches are well-spaced along the trunk.
It is among the few conifers that can be grown indoors. Properly cared for, it can thrive for many years.
In the wild, these trees reportedly can grow to 200 feet tall. But indoors they remain compact, especially if confined to a small pot.
Water, Humidity, Temperature and Light
A Norfolk Island Pine does best in consistently moist soil during the summer growing season, but don’t let it become soggy. In winter, let it dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize it sparingly during the growing season using a fertilizer for acid-loving plants.
These trees need a humid environment. In heated homes or dry climates, misting with cool water or running a humidifier will help supply the needed humidity.
Ideal temperature for these pines is 60 to 70 degrees during the day with slightly lower temperatures at night. It can tolerate temperatures somewhat higher or lower, but will suffer if the air is excessively hot or cold.
Natural light provides the best growing conditions for the Norfolk Island Pine. A window that gets bright light – but not direct sunlight – is ideal. Rotate the plant to maintain its symmetrical growth.
Falling Branches and Brown Tips
It is natural for Norfolk Island Pines to lose a few of their lower branches as they grow. If a lot of branches seem to be falling or if brown tips appear, check to be sure it’s receiving enough humidity and that it’s not being under-watered or over-watered.
A Norfolk Island Pine should not be pruned.
Pests
These plants occasionally fall prey to spider mites and mealy bugs. If this occurs, use a horticultural soap or diluted rubbing alcohol to remove the pests.
Decorate for Christmas
Christmas is the time for your Norfolk Island Pine to shine! Set it out in a prominent spot and hang it with small, lightweight ornaments, bows or garlands. Avoid lights, however, as Christmas tree lights can dry out the foliage.
As a member of the Araucarialine, Norfolk Island Pine is a member of one of earth’s most ancient tree families. Its cousin, Araucaria araucana, or the Monkey Puzzle Tree of Chile, has been found in fossils dating back millions of years. Norfolk Island Pine is not a true pine.
Norfolk Island Pine is relatively easy to care for and will provide attractive indoor greenery for years.
Resources
Norfolk Island Pine Production Guide, R.T. Poole, L.S. Osborne, and A.R. Chase, University of Florida, IFAS, CFREC-A Foliage Plant Research Note RH-91-24, Mid-Florida Research & Education Center
Norfolk Island Pine, Gerald Klingaman, retired Extension Horticulturist – Ornamentals, Plant of the Week report, Extension News - December 5, 2003, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service
Norfolk Island Pine Needs TLC, B. Rosie Lerner, Extension Consumer Horticulturist Purdue University Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
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