About this plant
Monkey tail tree Araucaria
Araucarias (Araucaria) are an ancient genus of evergreen conifers, already present in the age of the dinosaurs, with around twenty species in the southern hemisphere, most of them in New Caledonia. They are known for their very regular, tiered branches covered in stiff, overlapping scale- or needle-like leaves. Only the Chilean species is hardy enough for gardens in our climate.
Araucaria araucana
Araucaria araucana, the monkey puzzle tree, is the national tree of Chile and grows wild on the slopes of the Andes in Chile and Argentina. Its rope-like branches stand in whorls and are densely clad with stiff, glossy, triangular leaves ending in a sharp point. Male and female trees are usually separate; older female trees bear large round cones with edible seeds. In cultivation it slowly reaches around 15 to 20 m.
Location and soil
Plant in full sun in a fertile, loamy soil that is moist but well-drained; it accepts various soil types and stands up well to wind, but does not tolerate paving over its roots. It prefers a mild, humid climate and withstands frost down to roughly -12 to -15 °C, which makes it moderately hardy in Belgium; give young trees a sheltered spot.
Pruning and care
Requires no pruning; with age the lower branches drop and the crown becomes umbrella-shaped. Never shorten the top. Older trees transplant poorly, so choose the final position at planting, ideally in March or April. Water regularly during the first years.
Use in the garden
A spectacular, very long-lived solitary tree for large gardens, parks and landscapes that call for a strong vertical accent. Give it ample space, away from paths, because of its sharp leaves. The species is endangered in the wild and protected internationally.
Characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Genus | Araucaria |
| Species | araucana |
Foliage
| Evergreen | yes |
| Colour (foliage) | green |
Growth habit
| Height | >1000 cm |
Location
| Winter hardiness | -20 °C |
| Soil type | acid |
| Location | sun |
| Soil moisture | moist |
Use
| Type (use) | solitary |