Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
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The Norfolk Island pine grows in perfect tiers: rings of soft, feathery branches spaced evenly around a straight trunk, like a tree drawn from memory. The needles are gentle to the touch, nothing like a true pine. It's best known as a living Christmas tree, but the real appeal is that it's just as lovely in February. And the ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs, which makes it a rare thing: a holiday tree that's safe to keep in a house with curious pets.
Which size is right for you?
| Size | Height | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Mini · 4" pot | 10–15 in | Desks, windowsills, a tiny tabletop tree |
| Tabletop · 6" pot | 12–24 in (1–2 ft) | Side tables, mantels, holiday centerpieces |
| Medium · 8" pot | 24–30 in (2–2.5 ft) | Plant stands or a low floor spot |
| Large · 10" pot | 36–42 in (3–3.5 ft) | A floor-standing living Christmas tree |
Heights are approximate and measured from the bottom of the nursery pot to the top of the tree. Each tree is grown individually, so fullness varies, and some well-established large trees reach up to 4 feet. Norfolk pines grow slowly indoors, so buy close to the size you want.
Quick facts
| Botanical name | Araucaria heterophylla |
| Also called | Norfolk pine, house pine, star pine, living Christmas tree |
| Pets | Non-toxic to cats and dogs (listed by the ASPCA) |
| Light | Bright light, at least 6 hours a day; some gentle direct sun is welcome |
| Water | Keep lightly moist; water when the top inch is dry |
| Humidity | 50% or higher (the key to green needles) |
| Temperature | 60–75°F; never below 50°F |
| Care level | Moderate: easy once you get light and humidity right |
Care guide
Light: Bright light for at least 6 hours a day keeps the branches full and evenly tiered. A south or west window is ideal. Rotate the pot a quarter turn every week so it grows straight. Too little light causes sparse, stretched tiers and thinning lower branches.
Water: Keep the soil lightly and evenly moist, watering when the top inch feels dry. Unlike succulents, this tree shouldn't dry out completely. Water until it drains, then empty the saucer. Water a bit less in winter, but never let the root ball go bone dry.
Humidity and temperature: Humidity of 50% or higher is the single most important factor in keeping needles green. Run a humidifier nearby in winter or set the pot on a pebble tray. Keep it away from heating vents, fireplaces and drafty doorways.
Soil and feeding: Use a well-draining mix with peat or coco coir plus perlite, in a heavy pot with drainage holes for stability. Feed monthly at half strength in spring and summer. Repot every 2 to 3 years in spring, keeping the pot modest to naturally limit size.
Pruning: Never cut the top (the central leader). Topping permanently ends its upward growth and symmetry. Trim only branches that are fully brown or damaged, since lost branches don't regrow.
Questions
Is Norfolk Island pine safe for cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. You may see some websites call it mildly toxic, so check the ASPCA listing directly if you see conflicting claims. As with any plant, a pet that eats a lot of the needles may get a mild upset stomach.
Can I decorate it as a Christmas tree?
Yes, with a light touch. Use lightweight ornaments and cool LED lights only, since the branches are soft and heat dries the needles. Skip flocking, artificial snow and shine sprays. Let a new tree settle in for 2 to 3 weeks first. A little needle drop during that adjustment is normal.
Why are the lower branches turning brown?
Almost always dry air, or soil that dried out too far. Keep humidity around 50% and the soil lightly moist. Catch it early: branches that drop don't grow back.
Can I trim the top to keep it short?
No, and it's the most common mistake people make with this tree. Cutting the top permanently stops upward growth and ruins the symmetrical shape. Control size with a modest pot instead.
Is it a real pine tree?
No. It's an ancient conifer from a different family (Araucariaceae), native to Norfolk Island in the South Pacific. That tropical origin is why it wants warmth and humidity indoors rather than the cold a true pine would like.
See more pet-safe palms and statement plants, or browse all pet-safe plants.
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I’m thrilled! I was a little concerned it would be smaller than it is, but it’s EXACTLY what I expected. I love it!
Arrived in fantastic condition. Well packaged.
I've been trying to get my hands on the 10 inch pot for a while now and purchased it as soon as you guys got it back in stock. I have one of the 6 inches in my living room and loved it so much I wanted to get another one in a larger size for my office. It's beautiful and fits my pot perfectly!
Packaged well arrived quick very healthy
I bought two 6 inch Norfolk Island Pines for my living room and they are so lovely! I can't wait to buy more plants from you guys. You truly have wonderful customer service.
