Care of the plant Araucaria heterophylla or Norfolk Island pine |
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The Araucaria genus, family Araucariaceae, comprises 15 tree species native to Australia, Chile, the Pacific Islands, and South America. Some species are: Araucaria heterophylla, Araucaria araucana, Araucaria bidwillii, Araucaria angustifolia. Common names: Norfolk Island pine, Star pine, Polynesian pine, Triangle tree. This species is endemic to Norfolk Island, Pacific Ocean. They are large trees that can exceed 50 meters (168 feet) in height in their natural habitat; grown in pots they reach 2 meters (6.56 feet). These very slow growing plants have horizontal branches and attractive fanned foliage with small needle shaped leaves. The leaves are deep green; when they sprout they are light green. They are used as a houseplant in lighted locations. The winter temperature should not be less than 5 ºC (41 ºF); If the temperature exceeds 25 ºC (77 ºF), it is advisable to spray the leaves with lime-free water twice a week. In summer they can be located outdoors but avoiding direct sun. The soil can be a mixture, in equal parts, of peat, coarse sand and mulch. Transplant every 3 years in spring. Water abundantly in summer (without watering) and more moderately in winter; let the soil dry before watering again. They do not need pruning. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer during the summer. They are plants resistant to pests but sensitive to excess watering. They propagate from spring sown seeds or cuttings. Due to its slow growth it is better to buy the new specimens in plant stores, in nurseries or in garden centers. |
Images of the plant Araucaria heterophylla or Norfolk Island pine |
 Araucaria heterophylla  Araucaria heterophylla  Araucaria heterophylla  Araucaria heterophylla  Araucaria heterophylla  Araucaria heterophylla |