Native Environment

• The Norfolk Island pine is native to Norfolk Island in the South Pacific and Australia, where it typically grows in coastal areas. In the wild it grows slowly, but eventually reaches heights up to 200 feet. In the United States it typically is used as a houseplant, where its slow growth allows it to be kept indoors for many years.
  
  

Soil

• Their coastal environment has led Norfolk Island pines to become very salt-tolerant. This does not mean that they should be kept in overly salty soil, but they can handle salts that build up in soil over time as a result of fertilization. Moderately fertile soil is ideal, so avoid overusing fertilizers. They also are used to growing in sandy soil that is well-drained. The roots should not be allowed to dry out, but well-drained soil is essential; water Norfolk pines only when necessary. Maintain a soil pH around 5.5.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Accustomed to a tropical environment, Norfolk Island pines ere extremely sensitive to cold temperatures and cannot be kept outdoors during winter in the United States except in Hawaii, South Florida and parts of California where frost is not an issue. Otherwise, Norfolk Island pines must be brought indoors during winter. Once indoors, humidity can be an issue. These trees can dry out in the average home, especially in winter; placing a humidifier nearby is helpful. Also, give them as much light as possible when they are indoors.
  
  

Problems

• Norfolk Island pines typically have straight, vertical trunks, but bent, leaning and double trunks can result from environmental problems. To prevent this, keep the potting soil moderately tightly packed, protect the trees from wind, maintain adequate light and fertility. Too much or too little water can result in death of the lower branches.