Wollemia pine
wollemia nobilis
Also known as: ["Wollemi pine","dinosaur tree"]
Overview
A rare and ancient species of tree, known for its unique appearance and resilience.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Genus: | Wollemia |
| Botanical Name: | Wollemia nobilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: protected outdoor garden spot or large indoor container with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix with added compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use pure sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid excessive cutting of main stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in freezing temperatures; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools afterward.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWollemia nobilis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicWollemia nobilis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicWollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi Pine, is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with any part of the plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Wollemia nobilis endangered?
A: Yes, it is listed as Critically Endangered in the wild, though it is widely cultivated.
Q: How fast does Wollemia nobilis grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically 30-50 cm per year.
Q: Can Wollemia nobilis be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and growth requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
