Araucaria cunninghamii, commonly known as the Hoop Pine, is an impressive evergreen conifer with elegant, upright growth and finely textured green foliage. Native to Australia and New Guinea, young plants make unusual and architectural houseplants, developing a distinctive symmetrical form as they grow.
Scientific Name
Araucaria cunninghamii
Common Name(s)
Hoop Pine, Colonial Pine
Origin
Native to eastern Australia and New Guinea, where it grows naturally in subtropical and tropical forests.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some gentle direct sunlight. Position close to a bright window and rotate regularly to encourage even, balanced growth.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried. Water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Avoid allowing the soil to become completely dry for prolonged periods or leaving the plant sitting in water.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to higher humidity. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air, which can cause the foliage to dry and brown.
Soil
Plant in a fertile, well-draining soil mix. A good-quality houseplant compost with added perlite or fine bark will help provide adequate drainage.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 15–24°C. Keep away from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes.
Pet-safe
There is limited reliable information regarding the toxicity of Araucaria cunninghamii. We recommend keeping it out of reach of pets and children as a precaution.
Sprouts Top Tips
Give your Hoop Pine plenty of bright light and rotate the pot regularly to help maintain its attractive, symmetrical shape. Avoid cutting off the main growing tip, as this can permanently affect its natural form.
Extras
Although sold as a young indoor plant, Araucaria cunninghamii is a large forest tree in its natural habitat. Indoors, its growth is much slower and can be controlled by keeping it container-grown.
Did You Know?
The name Hoop Pine comes from the horizontal rings or ‘hoops’ visible on the bark of mature trees. In the wild, Araucaria cunninghamii can eventually grow into a towering tree reaching around 50 metres in height.
