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 “Despite their name, these evergreens are not
actually pine trees,” says University of Illinois Extension
horticulture educator Ken Johnson.
Instead, they belong to the ancient plant family Araucariaceae,
which were widespread during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods but
are now confined to the southern hemisphere. In their native habitat
on Norfolk Island, which is in the South Pacific, these evergreens
can reach heights of up to 200 feet and have trunks up to 10 feet in
diameter.
European explorer James Cook arrived at Norfolk Island in 1774. With
the trees’ long, straight trunks, Cook believed the island’s
evergreens could be used to make ship masts.
“Ever since, Norfolk Island pines have been transported around the
world,” Johnson says. “They can be found growing in humid coastal
areas in many countries, including the U.S.”
In addition to being used as an ornamental plant, their wood is used
for construction, woodturning, and crafts.
As houseplants, Norfolk Island pines grow slowly, about 3 to 6
inches a year and they typically will reach heights of 6 to 8 feet,
although they can grow taller.
Johnson says the key to keeping houseplants healthy is to mimic
their native environment as closely as possible. [to top of second
column] |
“Our homes tend to be dry, especially in winter, so it is
important to take steps to increase the humidity around your plant,” he says.
“This can be done by misting plants, using a humidifier, or making a humid
microclimate.”
Fill a saucer with rocks and add water until the rocks are slightly above the
water line; then place the plant on top of the rocks. While Norfolk Island pines
like moist conditions, if the plant is overwatered or has wet feet it can lose
branches. Allow the soil to dry between waterings and make sure the pot has
drainage holes. A diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer can be used every two
weeks while they are actively growing, typically from March to September.
Norfolk Island pines enjoy bright locations, but they can tolerate lower light
conditions once they have been acclimated. If plants are not allowed to
acclimate, entire branches may yellow and die. In low light conditions, branches
become long and droopy, and growth will slow. Turn the plant occasionally so it
receives adequate light and grows evenly and straight.
With proper care, a holiday Norfolk Pine tree will last for years to come.
[SOURCE: Ken Johnson, Horticulture
Educator, Illinois Extension
Photo credit Sandeep Handa, Pixabay]
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