Water
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this species is sensitive to overwatering.
Also known as Araucaria · Chile Pine · Chilean-Pine
Monkey-puzzle (Araucaria araucana) is an ancient evergreen conifer with stiff, spiky leaves and a unique, symmetrical form, often reaching considerable heights.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and form, but can tolerate partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures; avoid extreme heat and frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this species is sensitive to overwatering.
Pruning is generally not required for aesthetic reasons, as the natural form is striking. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed. Avoid heavy pruning, which can stress the plant.
Propagation is best achieved from seeds sown in spring. Seeds require stratification and can be slow to germinate. Grafting can also be used for established cultivars.
Young plants may benefit from repotting every 2-3 years in spring. Mature trees are best left undisturbed. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Monkey-Puzzle (Araucaria araucana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Genus | Araucaria |
| Species | Araucaria araucana |
Similar in genus Araucaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
