Araucaria Heterophylla

• Native to Norfolk Island between Australia and New Zealand, this ancient conifer species has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years. It's closely related to the monkey puzzle tree and bunya pine.
• Develops distinctive whorled branching pattern with symmetrical tiers that create its classic Christmas tree shape. Young plants have soft, needle-like foliage that becomes more scale-like with age.
• Can reach 60 metres in natural habitat but typically grows 2-3 metres indoors as a houseplant. Extremely long-lived, with some specimens known to survive over 150 years.
• Beloved as Australia's natural Christmas tree and symbol of Norfolk Island - appears on the island's flag and is deeply connected to local culture and history.

• Water weekly during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings - reduce to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture with finger test before watering.
• Place in bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors - protect from harsh midday sun. Rotate pot quarterly for even growth.
• Use well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand - avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
• Feed with balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring to autumn - dilute to half strength to prevent nutrient burn. No feeding required in winter.
• Prune only damaged or dead branches - never top the main leader as this destroys natural shape. Clean tools with alcohol before cutting.
• Maintain humidity with regular misting or pebble tray - especially important during dry Australian summers and heated winter indoors.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or partial shade outdoors - avoid harsh direct sunlight which can scorch needles. East or west-facing windows work best for indoor plants.
• Water when top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess to drain completely - never let it sit in waterlogged soil. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Maintain humidity above 50% with regular misting or humidity tray - dry indoor air causes needle drop. Group with other plants to create humid microclimate.
• Keep temperatures between 15-24°C and protect from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes. Move outdoor plants to sheltered position during winter.
• Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season - avoid over-fertilising which causes weak, leggy growth.

• Scale insects can attach to branches causing yellowing foliage - treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Remove heavily infested branches and improve air circulation around the plant.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and brown, dropping needles - ensure proper drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in winter months.
• Spider mites cause fine webbing and stippled leaves in dry conditions - increase humidity and spray with water regularly. Use miticide if infestation is severe.
• Tip burn occurs from low humidity or fluoride in tap water - use filtered water and place on humidity tray. Trim brown tips with clean scissors.