Not technically a pine, this ancient lineage of trees would have become extinct by the same event that killed off the dinosaurs if it had not been isolated and preserved on its native Norfolk Island. It is also called Polynesian pine or living Christmas tree since it has been used extensively as a miniature potted ornamental due to the symmetry of its immature form. Commonly confused with the Cook pine in Hawai’i. Both trees have been planted extensively by foresters as lumber and reforestation projects.
- Extremely salt tolerant, these can be planted as windbreaks near the coast
- Unlike true pines, they cannot withstand temperatures below 50 degrees F
- Prefer humid conditions and sandy soil