Monkey Puzzle

A fantastic architectural tree. Native to Chile and Argentina, sometimes referred to as Chilean pine, First introduced to Europe in the late 1700's and prized at the time for its unusual growth habit, There are fossil records dating back to the mid-Mesozoic period approx 180 Million years, Araucaria araucana got its common name 'Monkey puzzle' from the thick spiky leaves covering the entire tree in where it has been stated 'It would puzzle a monkey to climb that tree. In its native range it is utilized as a very important food crop as the ripe seed can be eaten if roasted.

Site: Inland exposed, tolerates some salt
Soil: Well drained especially when young
Position: Full sun but will tolerate some shade
Season of Interest: Evergreen, Autumn cones
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 60-80ft (18-25m ) Spread: 20 - 30ft (6 - 9m) (after approx 50 years)