Norfolk Pine: The Christmas Tree That Refuses to Be Just a Christmas Tree

If you’ve ever walked into a garden centre around the holidays and thought, “Is that a Christmas tree… but make it tropical?” congratulations, you’ve met the Norfolk pine. Elegant, soft-needled, and surprisingly long-lived, this plant has quietly become a holiday favourite and a year-round houseplant superstar.

Let’s dig into what Norfolk pines are, where they came from, how to keep them alive (and thriving), and why they deserve more than a one-month cameo in your living room.

 

What Is a Norfolk Pine?

Despite the name, a Norfolk pine is not actually a pine at all. It’s a tropical evergreen tree known botanically as Araucaria heterophylla and belongs to an ancient group of trees that existed long before dinosaurs became extinct (no pressure, right?).

In their natural habitat, these trees can grow over 200 feet tall. Indoors, thankfully, they’re much more polite, typically topping out at 6–10 feet over many years.

Their soft, symmetrical branches and layered, star-like shape make them a natural alternative to traditional Christmas trees, especially for smaller spaces.

A Brief (But Interesting) History

Norfolk pines are native to Norfolk Island, a tiny island in the South Pacific between Australia and New Zealand.

They were first documented by Captain James Cook in the late 1700s, who thought they might be useful for ship masts (spoiler: they weren’t). What they were useful for was becoming one of the most recognizable ornamental trees in the world.

Fast forward a couple of centuries, and Norfolk pines have firmly rooted themselves as beloved houseplants, especially around Christmas.

 

Norfolk Pine’s Claim to Fame

Norfolk pines are famous for being:

• The ultimate living Christmas tree
• Soft to the touch (no needle attacks here)
• Long-lived houseplants we’re talking decades
• Decor-friendly without the mess or needle drop 

They’re often sold as tabletop or floor-sized holiday trees, lightly decorated with ornaments or lights, then quietly expected to survive January… and beyond.

Good news: they absolutely can, if you treat them right.

How to Care for a Norfolk Pine

Light Requirements

Norfolk pines love bright, indirect light.

• • Near a sunny window is ideal
  • Some direct morning sun is fine
  • Rotate the plant regularly so it grows evenly (unless you’re into the “leaning tower of pine” look)

Low light won’t kill it immediately, but it will result in sparse, leggy growth over time.

Placement & Temperature

Think tropical vacation, not Canadian winter.

• • Ideal temperature: 18–24°C (65–75°F)
  • Keep away from cold drafts, doors, and heating vents
  • Avoid sudden temperature swings (they hate drama) 

Norfolk pines also appreciate higher humidity, especially in winter when indoor air is dry.

Pro tip: A pebble tray or humidifier goes a long way toward preventing crispy branches.

Watering

This is where most people get into trouble.

• • Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
  • Water thoroughly, then let excess drain away
  • Never let the pot sit in standing water 

Norfolk pines don’t like soggy roots, but they also don’t appreciate drying out completely. Think evenly moist, not swampy or desert-like.

Fertilizing

• • Feed lightly during spring and summer
  • Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer every 4 - 6 weeks
  • Skip fertilizing in fall and winter 

Over-fertilizing can cause weak growth and unhappy roots, less is more here.

Soil & Potting

• • Use a well-draining potting mix
  • Ensure the pot has drainage holes
  • Repot every 2 - 4 years, or when roots become crowded 

They like being slightly snug, so don’t rush to upsize the pot.

 

Decorating a Norfolk Pine (Without Regret)

Yes, you can decorate it, just gently.

• Use lightweight ornaments
• Skip heavy garlands
• Avoid hot lights 

Once the holidays are over, remove decorations promptly so branches don’t get stressed or misshapen.

Common Norfolk Pine Problems (And What They’re Trying to Tell You)

Dropping lower branches

Often normal with age, but excessive drop can mean low light or inconsistent watering.

Brown tips

Usually low humidity or underwatering.

Yellowing needles

Often overwatering or poor drainage. 

Norfolk pines are subtle communicators, they won’t scream, but they will sulk.

 

Why Norfolk Pines Are Worth Keeping Year-Round

Beyond the holidays, Norfolk pines make stunning:

• Living room statement plants
• Office corner companions
• Long-term heirloom houseplants 

With proper care, they can live for decades, quietly growing alongside you and becoming a part of your home’s story.

 

Final Thoughts

Norfolk pines may show up dressed for Christmas, but they’re not seasonal divas. With the right light, consistent care, and a bit of humidity, they’ll happily stick around long after the ornaments come down.

Treat them less like a disposable holiday decoration and more like the ancient, elegant tree they are and they’ll reward you with years of soft, evergreen beauty.

Happy gardening!