This Year’s Trendiest Christmas Tree: The Norfolk Island Pine

A Brief History of the Norfolk Pine

The family of trees to which the Norfolk Island Pine belongs is actually not even a pine tree at all; Araucariaceae has a long history, with fossils dating back to the Jurassic Period, over 200 million years ago.

Beginning with its discovery by Captain James Cook in 1774, the Norfolk Pine has its roots on a small island located between New Zealand and New Caledonia, known as Norfolk Island. Captain Cook initially considered the Island conifer for use in building ship masts for the British Royal Navy due to its tall, straight trunk. However, when the island was first settled in 1788, inhabitants discovered that the wood was not strong or resilient enough to withstand the wear and tear of the seas.

Shortly after its discovery in the late 1700s, the Norfolk Island Pine was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant. Since then, its popularity has grown immensely, and it is cultivated worldwide as a popular indoor houseplant due to its low-maintenance care regimen and attractive symmetrical shape.

When not used ornamentally as a Christmas Tree or houseplant, those with the proper conditions may consider incorporating this tree into the outdoor landscape for a unique statement. Island-like conditions with wet sand and salt-laden winds are where this unique specimen feels at home.

Reasons To Incorporate the Norfolk Island Pine Into Your Holiday Decor

1. Space-Saving Option

If you love the look of a live Christmas tree, but are limited on space, a Norfolk Pine might be the perfect option for you! This slow-growing conifer can reach heights of over 200 feet in its native tropical habitat, but indoors, it typically grows to a height of only 8 feet and is often pruned or trained as a miniature tree. Our 10-inch option is ideal for small rooms or apartments around the holidays, as it measures approximately 4 feet tall and 2.5 to 3 feet wide.

2. Sustainable & Long Lasting

While many choose to cut a fresh tree from the forest for their holiday decor, this is ultimately wasteful and harmful to the environment. Many Christmas Tree farms rely on pesticides and fertilizers, and ample water to grow the trees…and then when the season is over, they end up slowly decomposing somewhere in a landfill. While this is a more sustainable option than, say, an artificial Christmas tree, the most sustainable option would be to use a live, potted indoor tree such as the Norfolk Island Pine.

3. Low-Maintenance & Less Hassle

If you’ve ever gone through the process of getting a fresh-cut Christmas tree, you likely know that it isn’t exactly simple. From properly securing the large tree to your car, to transporting it indoors, down to consistent watering and upkeep, some might argue that having a fresh-cut Christmas tree is a full-time labor of love. While Norfolk Pines still require some maintenance, the effort needed is much lower, and the best part–you don’t have to worry about transportation or cleaning up those pesky pine needles that inevitably end up everywhere when you choose the route of a fresh-cut tree. The holidays are stressful enough as it is…take a load off with a simple yet stunning Christmas Tree alternative.

4. Aesthetically Pleasing

A final reason to opt for incorporating a Norfolk Pine into your holiday decor this year is for the purpose of aesthetics! The Norfolk Pine is known for its pleasing symmetrical form and visually appealing appearance. You can leave your tree as-is for a simple yet elegant statement, or you can dress it up like you would your average Christmas tree with bows, ornaments, and garland! No matter what you decide, we are certain that this little tree will go a long way in bringing festive vibes and holiday joy to your indoor space.