Norfolk Island Pine
Araucaria heterophylla
Despite the common name, not a true pine — this ancient-lineage conifer from Norfolk Island (between Australia and New Zealand) grows into a strikingly symmetrical, tiered tree with soft needle-like foliage. A popular living holiday tree in Canadian homes. Indoors it stays 1–2 m. Listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, though some sources dispute this — mild GI upset is possible if eaten in quantity.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Indoor (native to Norfolk Island, South Pacific)
Light
Bright indirect light with some direct sun; turn regularly to keep shape symmetrical
Bloom Time
Does not flower indoors
Soil
Slightly acidic, well-draining potting mix
Water
When top 2–3 cm is dry; prefers higher humidity than most homes provide
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Very difficult from cuttings — only a tip cutting from the very top develops into a symmetrical tree (but that removes the growing point from the parent). Most commonly grown from seed by commercial growers.
