Norfolk Island Pine
Araucaria heterophylla (A. excelsa). ARAUCARIACEA.
Planting and Growing Norfolk Island Pine
You’ll find everything you need to know to plant and grow Norfolk island pine trees in the accompanying table’s tabs:
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- Foliage, cones, and seeds of Norfolk island pine
- Growing conditions for Norfolk island pine
- When to plant Norfolk island pine
- How to plant Norfolk island pine
- How to prune Norfolk island pine
- Watering, fertilizing, and care of Norfolk island pine
- Landscape uses of Norfolk island pine
- Pest and disease control for Norfolk island pine
Growing Norfolk Island Pine Trees
Single cultivar of medium-growing, conical, erect, open and branching, coniferous, evergreen trees, to 200 ft. (61 m) tall, 60 ft. (18 m) wide, with shiny, deep green, awl-shaped, becoming narrrow and lance-shaped, overlapping leaves, 1-1/2–2 in. (38–50 mm) long, on broad, symmetrical, radiating branches.
Norfolk Island Pine are a separate plant family from true pine (Pinus species). Araucaria araucana, monkey-puzzle tree, is a closely related species with similar care needs.
Norfolk Island Pine Planting and Care Guide
Cones and Seeds
Female cones are green, brown, oval-shaped, 3–6 in. (75–150 mm) long, with woody scales, each bearing a single, winged seed. Male cones are narrow and oval, 1-1/2–2 in. (38–50 mm) long.
Best Climates
U.S.D.A. Plant Hardiness Zones 7–11. Semi-hardy. Best in subtropical climates.
Soil Type and Fertility
Moist to dry, well-drained soil. Fertility: Rich–average. 6.5–7.5 pH.
Where and How to Plant
Full sun. Space 25–40 ft. (7.5–12 m) apart.
Proper Care
Easy. Keep moist until established. Fertilize annually. Avoid pruning. Propagate by cuttings.
About This Species
Good choice for accents, containers, screens, walls in seaside, small-space gardens or patios and lawns. Good for holiday decoration. Drops cones, requiring maintenance. Pest and disease resistant.