Caring For and Maintaining Your Araucaria

Araucaria, or the Norfolk Island Pine, is native to Norfolk Island, which is a tiny island located east of Australia in the South Pacific. This tree is the primary export of the island, and used as a living Christmas tree throughout the world. In the wild, the tree can reach up to 200 feet, but as a houseplant, it only approaches about 8' in height, but its height is more likely to be in the 3-6' range. The tree is moderately toxic to pets.

 Sunlight: Araucaria loves full sun but will also grow well in bright indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but if kept in a shady spot too long, it will not reach its full potential.

 Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Araucaria is partially drought tolerant, but that doesn't mean you should leave it unwatered for long periods. If the needles begin to yellow, it is telling you that it is thirsty.

Humidity: Hailing from the South Pacific, Araucaria appreciate high humidity. To help create a more humid environment for your Araucaria, consider adding a fine mist humidifier to the room(s) in which you have your Araucaria. You can also place trays filled with stones and water nearby your Araucaria to increase local humidity. Lightly misting your Araucaria with a hand sprayer will also help raise the local humidity level. Although the more humidity the better, a constant relative humidity of 50-55% will promote your Araucaria’s growth and health.

Temperature: Araucaria prefers moderate temperatures in the range of 65-75 degrees (18-24 degrees C). They will not survive freezing temperatures.

 Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. Keep in mind that Araucaria like acidic and sandy soils, so you may which to amend your soil with this fact in mind.