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Description
Araucaria Araucana, also known as the monkey puzzle tree, is a coniferous evergreen tree that is native to the Andes Mountains in Chile and Argentina. It is a member of the Araucariaceae family and can grow up to 50-60 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide. The trunk is straight and columnar, with a diameter of up to 6 feet. The tree has a distinctive pyramidal shape with dense, spiky foliage that resembles a pinecone.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Genus: | Araucaria |
Appearance
The Araucaria Araucana has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other trees. It has dense, spiky foliage that grows in a spiral pattern around the branches. The leaves are stiff and sharp, with a dark green color that can appear almost black in certain lighting conditions. The tree produces both male and female cones, which can take up to two years to mature. The cones are large, with a diameter of up to 8 inches, and have a distinctive shape that resembles a pineapple.
Care Guide
Proper care is essential for the health and longevity of the Araucaria Araucana tree. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Water: The tree should be watered regularly, especially during the summer months when temperatures are high. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and summer months to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soils that are heavy and compacted.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It is important to provide the tree with enough sunlight to promote healthy growth.
Hardiness Zones: The Araucaria Araucana tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
While the Araucaria Araucana is generally a hardy tree, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are a few to watch out for:
Pests: The tree can be vulnerable to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil spray.
Diseases: The tree can be susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. It can also be affected by needle blight, which causes the needles to turn brown and fall off. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Araucaria Araucana tree is native to the Andes Mountains in Chile and Argentina. It grows at high elevations, typically between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. The tree prefers cool, moist climates and is well adapted to the harsh conditions of the Andes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Araucaria Araucana tree suitable for planting in small gardens?
A: The tree can grow quite large, so it may not be suitable for small gardens. However, dwarf varieties are available that can be grown in containers.
Q: Can the tree tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the Araucaria Araucana tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: How often should the tree be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and summer months to promote healthy growth.
Q: Does the tree require a lot of sunlight?
A: The tree prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It is important to provide the tree with enough sunlight to promote healthy growth.
Related Plants
– Araucaria Bidwillii (Bunya Pine)- Araucaria Cunninghamii (Hoop Pine)- Araucaria Heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine)- Araucaria Angustifolia (Brazilian Pine)
References
– “Araucaria Araucana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b720- “Araucaria Araucana – Monkey Puzzle Tree.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/monkey-puzzle-tree/growing-monkey-puzzle-trees.htm- “Araucaria Araucana.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12978/Araucaria-araucana/Details
