The term refers to a specific variety of evergreen tree, Araucaria heterophylla, commonly sold through a major home improvement retail chain. These trees, while resembling miniature pines, are not true pines and are native to Norfolk Island in the Pacific Ocean. Typically purchased as indoor plants, they offer a unique aesthetic with their symmetrical, tiered branching pattern.
Offering a touch of natural greenery to interior spaces, the accessibility of these trees through a widespread retailer makes them a popular choice for consumers. Their relatively low-maintenance requirements, compared to other indoor plants, contribute to their appeal. Historically, Araucaria heterophylla has been cultivated as an ornamental plant in various parts of the world, valued for its distinctive appearance and adaptability to indoor environments.