Question: Judy, I have a VERY TALL Norfolk Island Star Pine (taller than the rain gutter on the outside of my house). I've had it since it was a baby and it is still in a pot. It has to go into the ground or it won't survive, but I can't find any info about the root system. Please tell me if it can be planted in a relative small back-yard area or does it need lots of space.

Thank you. - Linda

 

Judy's Answer: Hi Linda,

The star pine has a very weak root system. This makes them easy to plant or repot, but also makes it easy for them to blow over in a strong wind or bad storm.
In tropical areas where it is not too hot or too cold and the star pine gets consistent moisture, they can grow up to 50ft. tall and will be very wide in diameter. Some people have also reported that they attract lightening because of their excessive amount of sap. (this is heresay, I have not seen it happen personally).

If you have a very small yard, I might think twice before planting it there. Perhaps you could use it as a "mother plant" and propagate other small star pines from it.

Judy

Norfolk Island Star Pine