Araucaria araucana - Monkey Puzzle Tree

Araucaria araucana - Monkey Puzzle Tree

Well known as the Monkey Puzzle Tree, this unusual and 'pokey' evergreen tree is native to central and southern Chile and western Argentina. Popular for the 'reptilian' branches forming a tree with very symmetrical appearance. Prefers a temperate climate, but it hardy to -4 degrees F. Considered a rare tree in cultivation. The name came from England when at one time being shown to some other plant enthusiasts, someone remarked "It would puzzle a monkey to climb that".

Type: Dwarf Conifers
Genus: Araucaria
Species: araucana
Exposure: Full Sun
Color: Green
Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen
Ultimate Height: 60 ft.
Hardiness Zone: 7; 8; 9
Growth Habit: pyramidal
Water Requirements: Twice a Month