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Araucaria arucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree)

Type Tree, Conifer, Evergreen
Form Conical-Shaped Tree, Architectural Form
Size Large Tree (8m or more height)
Colours Medium green Foliage
Care Low/Easy Maintenance - Tough Plant
Hardiness Very hardy, Drought Tolerant
Growth Slow Growing Plant
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Araucaria arucana Description

This evergreen conifer produces long spidery dropping branches which are densely packed with tight dark green leaflets. The architectural form of the Monkey puzzle make it a fine specimen with time.


Araucaria arucana - Cultivation Notes

This slow growing conifer prefers a milder climate - and is prone to frost damage - especially when young. It prefers a moist fertile soil, but will tolerate windy conditions and is suitable for plant near the coast.


Strengths, Weaknesses & Design Usage

Strengths of Araucaria arucana:
  • Sun loving drought tolerant plant
  • Ornamental winter bark / tracery
  • Spiney growth can deter unwanted visitors!
  • All round tough plant suitable for problem areas
  • Provides valuable winter interest
  • Evergreen foliage for all year round colour and screening
  • Architectural plant – ideal as a ‘stand out’ plant
  • Attractive form or foliage for all year interest
  • Tolerates full sun and sandy, drought-prone soils
  • Tolerates cold exposed locations
Weaknesses of Araucaria arucana
  • Spiney plant - can scratch young children and gardeners!
  • Does not produce showy attractive flowers
Design & Plant Use for Araucaria arucana:
  • Evergreen plant with attractive foliage for winter interest
  • Conifer with outstanding foliage colour for winter interest
  • Added winter interest from attractive bark or stems

Common Missspellings: Arucana, Arocana, Aurocana


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Araucaria arucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree)
Find out where you can buy Araucaria arucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree) online in the UK.

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View all the plants listed in Genus Araucaria

View other types of conifers with medium green foliage