Araucaria

Description

Araucaria, also known as the monkey puzzle tree, is a genus of evergreen conifers that are native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. There are 19 species of Araucaria, with the most common being the Araucaria araucana. These trees can reach up to 50 meters in height and have a distinctive shape with branches that grow in whorls. The name “monkey puzzle” comes from the idea that a monkey would have trouble climbing the tree due to its prickly leaves.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Coniferophyta
Class	Pinopsida
Order	Araucariales
Family	Araucariaceae
Genus	Araucaria

Appearance

The Araucaria tree has a distinctive shape with branches that grow in whorls. The leaves are stiff and needle-like, arranged in spirals around the branches. The cones of the Araucaria are also unique, with a diameter ranging from 10 to 20 cm. The female cones are large and woody while the male cones are smaller and have a cylindrical shape.

Care Guide

Araucaria trees are relatively low maintenance but do require some care to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Araucaria trees prefer moist soil but do not like to be waterlogged. Water the tree regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Araucaria trees grow best in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
• Sunlight: Araucaria trees prefer full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Araucaria trees are hardy in zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F (-9°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Araucaria trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to:

• Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the tree and can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow.
• Spider mites: These pests are common in dry environments and can cause damage to the leaves of the tree.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause the roots of the tree to rot, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves.

Habitat

Araucaria trees are native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. They are commonly found in mountainous regions and can grow at high altitudes of up to 2,000 meters.

Question and Answer

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about Araucaria:

• Q: Is Araucaria a good indoor plant?
  A: Araucaria trees can be grown indoors but require a lot of light and space to thrive.
• Q: How often should I water my Araucaria tree?
  A: Water your Araucaria tree regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Q: How tall can an Araucaria tree grow?
  A: Araucaria trees can grow up to 50 meters in height.
• Q: Can Araucaria trees tolerate cold temperatures?
  A: Araucaria trees are hardy in zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F (-9°C).

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Araucaria:

• Cedrus
• Pinus
• Picea
• Abies

References

• “Araucaria.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 11 May 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Araucaria.
• “Araucaria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b418.
• “Araucaria.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2739/i-araucaria-i/Details.