How to care for Norfolk Island pine

Lower-branch loss is the first thing to watch on Norfolk Island pine. Use bright light, let the surface dry between waterings, and protect the branches from dry air.

Plant coveredAraucaria heterophyllaNorfolk Island pine · Indoor container

Find a bright, steady position

Light and temperature

Use bright light for Norfolk Island pine. An east, west, or south window is one extension option, but afternoon shade may be needed behind glass and low light can remove lower branches over time.

Use bright, relatively cool indoor conditions around 55–70°F (13–21°C). Dry air, dry soil, and insufficient light can brown tips or remove lower branches.

Check the mix, drainage and pot

Watering, drainage and repotting

Water thoroughly after the surface has dried and discard the drainage. Water more regularly from spring through autumn and use less in winter, without leaving the medium persistently wet.

Use a porous, slightly acid container medium that drains freely. Source options include a sandy or peaty mix and peat-free loam amended with grit. No single recipe is required.

Feed only during active growth

Fertilizer and active growth

A dilute liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks from spring through early autumn is one extension option. RHS gives balanced feed every two weeks in active growth and none in winter, so the product label still matters.

Check the visible signs before changing care

Common problems

Common Visible Problems

Scale, sooty mold, and leaf spot are possible problems. Brown tips or lower-branch loss can reflect dry air, dry soil, or insufficient light, so inspect those conditions together.

Use the verdict for this exact plant

Pet safety

Sources

Pet-safety information for catalog plants uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.