The Perfect Houseplant to add to your Christmas Decor
Do you wish you could have a live Christmas tree in your home without the expense year after year? Well, today we’re going to give you exactly what you’re looking for! A houseplant that is a perfect Christmas tree doppelganger. You can grow it indoors and treasure this cute plant year after year.
No longer are the days of having to sadly undecorate your tree and haul it off to the depressing pile of other dead Christmas trees! No, now you will simply undecorate and keep this unique houseplant in your home all year. The plant we’re featuring this month is the perfect addition to your home to give you all those warm and fuzzy holiday vibes this season. After the holidays are over it can then easily transition into your home decor year-round.
Introducing… The Norfolk Island Pine
Winner of the best living Christmas tree (awarded by us)
Plant Level: Intermediate
Cost: $10-$50
Norfolk Island Pine
Native to Norfolk Island, Norfolk Island Pines are also known as Araucaria heterophylla. This beautiful evergreen is a showstopper in any home. In their native tropical environment, Norfolk Island Pines can grow up to 200 feet tall! Don’t worry though, indoors they usually max out at about 6-8 feet.
While they resemble and have some similarities to a pine tree it’s important to remember that they are very different. Norfolk Island Pines are a tropical plant, they are not cold hardy like a traditional pine and need a lot more attention than a pine tree. No worries though, we’re going to learn everything you need to know to keep this cutie thriving not only during your holiday season but year-round!
Light:
Norfolk Island Pines have high light demands. During the summer months, it’s best to give them a couple of hours of direct sunlight. Pair that with bright, indirect light for the rest of the day. Ideally, keep your Norfolk Island Pine close to a South facing window to make sure it receives enough light. If you need to supplement light for this plant consider using a grow light.
You can also keep your Norfolk out on your porch or deck when the weather permits. They would love to soak in some bright direct sunlight for a couple of hours. However, remember that they are not cold hardy and shouldn’t be outside in temperatures below 50 degrees F.
Water:
Allow your Norfolk Island Pine to dry out slightly between watering. Once the top of the soil starts to feel dry it’s time to water. If you notice the needles starting to yellow, brown, and dying your plant might need to be watered more often. If you need help knowing when to water use the moisture meter that we use and love.
Soil:
Use a quality fast-draining houseplant soil.
Humidity:
Native to the tropics this plant demands high humidity. Most households will not have high enough humidity to keep it happy. Add a humidifier to your space to keep your tropical beauties thriving. You can also mist this plant every couple of days or use a humidity tray underneath to boost the humidity levels around this plant.
Fertilizer:
During the growing period use a liquid houseplant fertilizer to help this beauty grow and thrive. When the plant is receiving less light, during winter, make sure to ease up on the fertilizer. If given fertilizer but not adequate light this plant can get a little leggy.
Toxicity:
This plant is mildly toxic. This plant is similar to a pine tree in that it has needles. It’s common for these needles to occasionally fall off as the houseplant naturally goes through different seasons. If you have pets or children make sure to watch that they do not ingest these needles. Looking for some pet-friendly houseplants? Check out our post that will give you loads of options!
Get your Norfolk Island Pine here
Our favorite way to display the Norfolk Island Pine is in this golden planter perfect for the holidays. Also, try adding some adorable ornaments to your tree!
Looking for more plant info? Check out our favorite plants to find tips to care for all the plants you have or want to add to your home. Also, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss out on a plant to love. Happy plant shopping.
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