Monkey Puzzle

Scientific Name

Araucaria araucana

Description

The Monkey Puzzle plant, scientifically known as Araucaria araucana, is a unique and distinctive evergreen tree native to the temperate rainforests of southern Chile and Argentina. Recognized for its striking appearance, it features an unusual growth habit with a spiral arrangement of thick, spiky, and leathery leaves that provide a prehistoric, architectural look. The tree can grow to heights of 50-80 feet (15-24 meters) and has a stout trunk that can reach widths of up to 3 feet (1 meter).

The Monkey Puzzle tree gets its name from its unusual branches, which, according to local legend, are so chaotic that they would puzzle a monkey trying to climb them. The tree is dioecious, meaning that male and female cones appear on separate trees. The male trees produce long, cylindrical cones, while the females produce large, barrel-shaped cones filled with edible seeds after pollination.

This tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and prefers well-drained, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, though young trees benefit from regular watering. Due to its unique aesthetic, the Monkey Puzzle plant is often used as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and landscapes. However, it is important to consider its potential size and growth habit when planning its placement.

Overall, the Monkey Puzzle plant is a fascinating addition for gardeners looking to create a distinctive and exotic garden. Its unusual form and historical significance make it an attractive choice for enthusiasts.

Where it Grows

When to Plant

Planting Your Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana)

The Monkey Puzzle tree, known scientifically as Araucaria araucana, is a unique and striking conifer native to the Andes Mountains in South America. Known for its distinctive, spiky appearance, the Monkey Puzzle tree can grow into a large specimen, making it an excellent choice for gardens that can accommodate its size. Timing is key when it comes to planting Monkey Puzzle trees to ensure their successful establishment.

Optimal Planting Time

The best time to plant a Monkey Puzzle tree largely depends on the climate of your region, but general guidelines suggest:

• Spring Planting: The ideal time to plant is in early to mid-spring after the last frost. This allows the tree to establish roots throughout the growing season.
• Fall Considerations: In warmer climates, some gardeners opt for late fall planting, provided that the ground is not frozen. However, this can be riskier as the young tree may not be able to withstand winter conditions without adequate protection.

Climate Considerations

Monkey Puzzle trees are best suited to temperate climates. Here are some factors to consider based on local climate:

• Frost-Free Period: Choose a planting date that ensures a frost-free period of several months for young saplings to establish themselves.
• Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in well-drained soils and prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. As young trees, they are somewhat sensitive to extreme drought and should not be planted in regions with harsh, prolonged winters without protection.

Site Selection

Before planting, evaluate the site’s characteristics:

• Sunlight: Monkey Puzzle trees need full sun to thrive; aim for a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Space: Due to their mature height of up to 100 feet and similar spread, select a site with adequate space to accommodate this tree without obstruction.

Preparatory Steps

1. Soil Preparation: Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
2. Digging the Hole: The planting hole should be at least twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it without crowding the roots.
3. Watering: Water the sapling well after planting, and continue regular watering during the initial establishment phase.

In conclusion, the best time to plant a Monkey Puzzle tree is primarily in spring after the danger of frost has passed, although late fall planting is also an option in milder climates. By considering climate, site selection, and proper preparation, you can successfully establish this fascinating tree in your garden.

How to Plant

Planting a Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana)

The Monkey Puzzle tree, native to Chile and Argentina, is an iconic species known for its unique, spiky appearance. When planting this tree, proper preparation and consideration of its specific needs are essential for successful growth.

1. Site Selection: Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well-draining soil. The Monkey Puzzle thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure there's enough space for the tree to grow, as it can reach heights of up to 100 feet with a wide spread.

2. Soil Preparation: While the Monkey Puzzle prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, it is adaptable to various soil types. However, ensure good drainage. If your soil is heavy clay, consider mixing in sand or organic matter to improve aeration.

3. Planting: Dig a hole that is about twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth. Carefully remove the tree from its container, disturbing the roots minimally, and place it in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

4. Watering: After planting, water the tree thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. Regular watering is essential during the first few years, especially in dry conditions. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Monkey Puzzle tree establishes well, providing a striking focal point in your garden for years to come.

Watering

Watering a Monkey Puzzle plant (Araucaria araucana) requires attention to its specific needs to promote healthy growth. This evergreen tree prefers well-draining soil, so it's essential to water it thoroughly but sparingly. The best strategy involves allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between watering sessions. Typically, watering every two to three weeks is adequate, depending on the season and climate.

During the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering frequency slightly, especially if the plant is exposed to higher temperatures or direct sunlight. In the fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.

Always check for signs of overwatering, such as yellowing leaves or root rot, and ensure the pot has drainage holes if grown indoors. This balanced approach helps mimic the Monkey Puzzle plant's native habitat, ensuring it thrives in your garden or home.

Pruning

Pruning a Monkey Puzzle plant (Araucaria araucana) requires careful consideration due to its unique growth habit and structure. The best strategy is to conduct pruning during late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This timing minimizes stress on the plant and helps it recover more effectively.

When pruning, it’s essential to remove only dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain the plant's natural shape and health. If shaping is necessary, avoid cutting back into old wood, as Monkey Puzzle plants do not sprout new growth from old wood. Instead, cut just above a healthy leaf whorl to encourage a well-balanced appearance.

Use clean, sharp pruning shears to ensure clean cuts, which help prevent disease. Avoid aggressive pruning, as this can harm the plant’s majestic silhouette, and remember that moderate care will yield a thriving and beautiful centerpiece in your garden.

Weeding

Weeding around a Monkey Puzzle plant (Araucaria araucana) requires a careful approach to protect its unique structure and growth pattern. Start by assessing the area for weeds, particularly during the growing season when competition for nutrients is highest.

The best strategy is to use hand weeding, as this minimizes damage to the plant’s shallow roots. Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands from the plant’s sharp leaves. Gently pull weeds by their roots, ensuring you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.

Consider mulching around the base to suppress future weed growth while adding organic matter. An organic mulch, such as wood chips, can help retain soil moisture and cool the soil, benefiting the Monkey Puzzle. Regular checks during the growing season will keep weeds under control and promote a healthier growing environment for your Monkey Puzzle.

Mulching

When mulching a Monkey Puzzle plant (Araucaria araucana), it is essential to enhance soil moisture retention while also regulating soil temperature. Start by applying a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark, pine needles, or wood chips, around the base of the tree. Aim for a thickness of 3 to 4 inches, ensuring that the mulch does not touch the trunk to prevent rot.

It's best to mulch in early spring after any frost threat has passed, allowing the plant to benefit from the added nutrients as the mulch decomposes. Replenish the mulch layer annually to maintain its effectiveness. Besides moisture retention, mulching helps suppress weeds that could compete for nutrients. With proper mulching, the Monkey Puzzle tree can thrive, develop strong roots, and display its unique beauty for years to come.

Fertilizing

When fertilizing a Monkey Puzzle plant (Araucaria araucana), it's crucial to take a thoughtful approach. These ancient trees prefer well-drained soil that closely mimics their native environment of Chile and Argentina. The best strategy involves fertilizing during the growing season—spring and summer months.

Opt for a slow-release, balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of around 10-10-10. This ensures a steady supply of essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant. Apply fertilizer sparingly, typically once or twice during the growing season. It’s best to incorporate the granules into the soil around the base of the plant and water thoroughly after application.

Additionally, monitor the plant closely for any signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing needles, and adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so it's essential to prioritize quality over quantity.

Varieties

Common Varieties of the Monkey Puzzle Plant (Araucaria araucana)

The Monkey Puzzle plant, scientifically known as Araucaria araucana, is an evergreen tree native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and Argentina. It is renowned for its distinctive, spiky foliage and unique growth habit. While there is typically one main species of Monkey Puzzle plant, several cultivars and variations have emerged, each exhibiting unique characteristics. Here are some of the commonly recognized varieties:

1. Aurea:

   • One of the most popular cultivars, Aurea features golden-tipped foliage that adds a striking contrast to the traditional green of the species. This variety retains the distinctive whorled branches typical of Monkey Puzzle plants.

2. Cutis:

   • This cultivar is characterized by its shorter and denser foliage, presenting a compact growth form. Cutis is ideal for smaller gardens or as a decorative potted plant on patios.

3. Bracteata:

   • Known for its unique needle-like leaves, Bracteata offers a more ornamental appearance. It tends to have a more upright growth and is often chosen for its refined aesthetic appeal.

4. Giant Monkey Puzzle:

   • This variety can reach greater heights compared to the standard Araucaria araucana. It is often sought after for landscaping purposes in parks and larger gardens, where its impressive stature can be appreciated.

5. Columnaris:

   • Resembling a column or a tower, this cultivar has an erect growth habit with tightly arranged branches. Its unique shape makes it a standout in any garden or landscape.

6. Variegata:

   • This cultivar showcases irregular white or cream streaks along the leaves, adding a touch of variety and visual interest. The Variegata is less common but can make for an eye-catching specimen.

7. Nana:

   • Also known as the Dwarf Monkey Puzzle, this cultivar is well-suited for smaller spaces and container gardening. It typically stays low and compact, making it an ideal choice for ornamental purposes in urban gardens.

Cultivation Tips

When considering cultivating any variety of Monkey Puzzle plant, it's essential to carefully select a planting location that offers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. The Monkey Puzzle tree is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Pruning is generally not necessary, as these trees maintain their shape well on their own.

For those in cooler climates, remember that the Monkey Puzzle is frost-resistant but prefers a protected location to thrive. With time, patience, and the right care, these unique trees can become a distinctive feature of your garden landscape.

Whether you choose a classic or a more unique variety, the Monkey Puzzle plant adds beauty and intrigue to any garden setting.

Health Benefits

The Monkey Puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana) is not just an intriguing addition to gardens with its unique, angular foliage; it has also been recognized for various health and wellness applications, particularly through its seeds. Known as "piñones" in some regions, the seeds of the Monkey Puzzle tree are edible and are rich in nutrients.

These seeds are high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them a nutritious snack option. Additionally, they contain essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining bone health and energy levels. Some traditional South American cultures have used the seeds as a food source for centuries, often roasting or grinding them for consumption.

In recent years, the health benefits of the tree’s oil have also gained attention. Extracted from the seeds, it is often used in cosmetic products for its moisturizing properties, providing nourishment to the skin. Furthermore, herbal medicine practitioners may explore its potential anti-inflammatory properties, adding to its wellness reputation.

While the Monkey Puzzle tree is primarily appreciated for its ornamental value, its health applications, particularly through its seeds and oil, represent an interesting aspect of this unique plant.

Fun Facts

Fun Facts About the Monkey Puzzle Tree

• Unique Appearance: The Monkey Puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana) is known for its distinctive, spiky branches and evergreen needles that resemble a puzzle, hence its quirky name. These trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and can live for over 1,000 years!

• Cultural Significance: Native to the Andes mountains in Chile and Argentina, the Monkey Puzzle tree is considered a national symbol of Chile, reflecting the cultural and ecological heritage of the region.

• Edible Seeds: The seed of the Monkey Puzzle tree is edible and has been a food source for indigenous peoples. They are rich in starch and can be roasted or eaten raw.

• Difficult to Climb: The tree's unique structure and sharp, angular branches make it notoriously difficult for monkeys (and anyone else) to climb, which is part of the story behind its whimsical name.

• Fossil Record: The Monkey Puzzle tree has a long evolutionary history, with relatives dating back to the age of dinosaurs. Fossils of similar species have been found, indicating that these impressive trees have been part of Earth's ecosystems for millions of years.