Norfolk Island pine care

Araucaria heterophylla needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Araucaria heterophylla
Other names: Norfolk pine, Australian pine, House pine
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in a bright window. Turn the pot a quarter turn each week.
Soil check: Every 5 to 9 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a light potting soil with some perlite or sand. The mix must drain well.

Brown, dropping lower branches mean dry soil, dry air or low light. They do not grow back.
Turn the pot often. The plant leans toward the light.
Do not cut the top of the main stem. The plant will not grow a new top.
Keep the plant away from heaters and cold drafts.

Not toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.