Araucaria araucana
TAXONOMY
FamilyAraucariaceae
GenusAraucaria
Zone7
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Araucaria araucana, commonly known as the Monkey Puzzle Tree, is a unique and ancient conifer native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and Argentina. It is known for its distinctive, spiky leaves and symmetrical branches. This tree can live for hundreds of years and is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Dombeya Chilensis
Monkey Puzzle Tree
Abies araucana
Araucaria araucana f. virgata
Araucaria araucana subsp. conguillioensis
Araucaria araucana var. angustifolia
Araucaria araucana var. aurea
Araucaria chilensis
Araucaria dombeyi
Araucaria imbricata
Araucaria imbricata var. aurea
Araucaria imbricata var. platifolia
Araucaria imbricata var. variegata
Columbea imbricata
Columbea imbricata var. densa
Columbea imbricata var. denudata
Columbea imbricata var. distans
Columbea imbricata var. latifolia
Columbea imbricata var. striata
Columbea imbricata var. variegata
Columbea quadrifaria
Dombeya araucana
Pinus araucana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
The Monkey Puzzle Tree requires bright, direct sunlight and moderate temperatures. It prefers a humid environment but can tolerate some dryness. Water the tree regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Ensure it is planted in a location with good air circulation.Soil
Araucaria araucana thrives in well-draining loamy soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize the Monkey Puzzle Tree with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer once a month to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the tree.Repotting
Repot young Monkey Puzzle Trees every 2-3 years to accommodate their growing root system. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Propagate Araucaria araucana through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings can be taken from young, healthy branches and rooted in a similar soil mix. Propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.Pruning
Prune the Monkey Puzzle Tree to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.Toxicity
The Monkey Puzzle Tree is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its sharp leaves can cause physical injury if handled carelessly. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling the tree.Additional
The Monkey Puzzle Tree is a slow-growing species, so patience is required when cultivating it. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance tree once established.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
