by Judy Evans

Created on: July 05, 2010

The Norfolk Island pine belongs to the Araucariaceae family and its scientific name is Araucaria heterophylla.

The Norfolk Island can reach heights of 61 metres in its native area. It is a very upright tree, forming a pleasing symmetrical pyramid. Despite its pine-like appearance it is not actually a pine.

All Acaucaria species are native to the southern hemisphere. Araucaria heterophylla is native to Norfolk Island which is situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia. The island is only 3mile wide by 5 mile long. Historically the island is significant as its inhabitants are descendants of Fletcher Christian and other mutineers from the HMS Bounty.

The Norfolk Island pine is very tolerant of soil conditions. It will grow virtually on the beach in saline conditions but will also survive in very acid soils. The root system is weak and tall specimens are rarely seen in areas prone to cyclones and strong winds. When grown in containers they will rarely need re-potting. They do not like dry conditions and drainage needs to be good if they are to thrive. They do not do well in temperatures below 40o F (4.4oC). As soon as the temperature drops below an acceptable level, the foliage will begin to discolour. Should the tree die from frost, new shoots will appear from the roots.

The Norfolk Island pine can be propagated by cuttings. Take cuttings from the terminal leader in summer. Do not take cuttings from lateral branches as plants from such cuttings will be irregular in form. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches long. Treat the cuttings with rooting hormone.

Once established, the Norfolk Island pine makes an eye-catching specimen tree in an expanse of lawn.

As well as propagation by cutting, propagation by seed is not particularly difficult. Seed germinates in 10 to 15 days. Place seed flat on a germination medium. Do not cover the seed but mist lightly from time to time until the tap root emerges and a stem emerges. Keep the medium moist. A mixture of 3:1 peat and sand is recommended.  This will keep the trunk straight and make up somewhat for the limited root system.

Many Norfolk pines find themselves in containers and decorated as Christmas trees. Place your tree where it can get the benefit of bright light without being in full sun. Within about four feet of a large window will usually suit your plant.

As the tree will grow towards the light, turn it a quarter turn regularly to keep it growing symmetrically. Water thoroughly each week in summer, keeping the soil slightly moist. If the plant dries out, water more often. Don’t let the soil become soggy. In winter, don’t rewater until the soil has dried out completely. A four-weekly feed with a half strength plant food will be beneficial.

If the tips of the branches become brown, if the needles drop or the lower branches die, your pine need more moisture as in humidity. Misting your plant regularly will prevent such problems.

Of course, Norfolk Island pines planted outside will not need nearly as much attention but will command just as much attention.

Learn more about this author, Judy Evans.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.