Araucaria araucana - Conifer - Monkey Puzzle Tree, Monkeypuzzle Tree Page

Araucaria araucana, commonly known as Monkey Puzzle Tree, is a remarkable evergreen conifer native to the volcanic slopes of the Andes mountains in Chile and Argentina. As the national tree of Chile, it is renowned for its distinctive appearance and longevity, earning it the nickname "living fossil." These trees can live for over a thousand years and may reach impressive heights of 130 feet in their natural habitat, though cultivated specimens usually remain between 60-70 feet tall.

This hardy tree thrives in cool, mild, maritime climates and is highly tolerant of various soil types, maritime exposures, and salt-laden winds. Its spiky, spirally arranged leaves are thick and leathery, elegantly wrapping around the trunk and branches. The trunk itself is often likened to an elephant's foot, with purplish-brown, smooth, fissured bark adding to its unique appearance.

Monkey Puzzle Tree is dioecious, with separate male and female trees. Female cones are large and pineapple-shaped, taking 2-3 years to mature, while male cones are oblong and borne in clusters. It’s an ideal choice for a striking garden specimen in USDA Zone 7, but requires ample space due to its broad maturity size and robust root system. With few pest or disease concerns, it demands a sunny, well-drained location with regular watering to reach its full potential. Originally introduced to Europe in the late 1700s, it gained popularity as an ornamental tree, its intriguing form and dinosaur-era origins captivating gardeners and landscapers alike.