January 2002

 

Norfolk Pine – Araucaria heterophylla

Origin: Norfolk Island (in the Southern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia)

These little living Christmas trees appear often in the post-holidays sales blow-outs. So if you are looking for a fairly easy to grow plant reasonably priced, the baby Norfolk Pines might be for
you. I’ve had the same one in my bird room for the past 12+ years. Around the holidays it gets decorated for the animals. In the summer, my Norfolk Pine goes outside for a vacation in a sheltered location with early morning sun.

Norfolk Pines grow moderately in speed, they aren’t terribly particular as to soil type but will grow faster in rich loam. But eventually they will outgrow most households. In their native
habitat, Norfolk Pines easily reach heights of 200 feet. So it you are considering transplanting outside (zone 9 w/protection to zone 11), it should be in a space of an acre or more. The picture
of the adult Norfolk Pine was taken in Florida and this particular tree, at 74 feet, is way too close to the house.

Another option, when they grow too big, is to donate it to your local conservatory or zoo. They generally have locations and needs for larger-sized plants. The nice thing about Norfolk Pines is that they are non-toxic. With needles of a soft brush-like consistency, many species of animals enjoy the camouflage these pines provide.

 OK, enough with the sales pitch, here’s how to care for the Norfolk Pine when they have to spend part of the year indoors:

1. Needs good drainage; will not tolerate flooding. Too much water may cause root rot.
2.  Likes bright light indoors but when outside, should receive filtered sun initially.
3. Isn’t affected by pests or many diseases.       
4. Give a balanced liquid fertilizer on monthly basis.
5. Re-pot on an annual or biannual basis to insure that an adequate root system develops.
6. When inside, mist several times weekly. Daily is even better.
7. When nighttime temperatures stay above 42 F, move your Norfolk Pine outdoors for a break.

Good luck and good growing for the new year.