How to Plant a Norfolk Pine Tree

Overview

Norfolk pines, or Norfolk Island pines, are tropical pine trees that are native to the Pacific Ocean island of Norfolk, situated between Australia and New Zealand. The tree, also sometimes called a star pine, has thick, stubby needles and can grow to a height of 200 feet or more. In the United States, it is known most as a popular indoor plant that takes well to pots and thrives in indirect sunlight. Its symmetrical shape makes it an ideal indoor Christmas tree.

Step 1

Fill a pot that's at least three times as big as the Norfolk pine's root ball with a layer of topsoil on the bottom, high enough for the root ball to sit on, so that the bottom of the trunk is about 3 inches below the edge of the pot.

Step 2

Fill in the rest of the pot with topsoil and tamp it down.

Step 3

Water thoroughly, just enough so that some water drains out of the bottom. Discard this excess water.

Step 4

Place the plant in a well-lit location, while avoiding direct sunlight. A good spot is within 4 feet of a large window. According to the Colorado State University's Plant Talk website, indoor Norfolk pines prefer nighttime temperatures of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit and daytime temperatures of 68 to 72 degrees.