Araucaria araucanaMonkey puzzle

Native to the mountains of Chile and Argentina, Araucaria araucana develops a strong, upright trunk, surrounded by large branches arranged in successive whorls. The crown is initially pyramidal and symmetrical, becoming more open and rounded with age, while the lower branches droop and accentuate its primitive expression. In favourable conditions it can reach 20 to 30 metres in height and exceed 10 metres in width.

The leaves are broad and triangular and end in a rigid point. They are arranged in a spiral, completely covering the branches and remaining on the tree for many years. Their intense, glossy green holds through the seasons, contrasting with the grey, thick, deeply marked bark of mature specimens.

It is a generally dioecious species, with separate male and female trees. Mature female specimens can produce large, rounded, upright cones, provided pollination takes place, while the males form more elongated structures. The cones ripen slowly and the large seeds are a singular feature of the species.

It prefers full sun or partial shade and deep, moist, well-drained soils, benefiting from an open position with enough space to develop its crown. It should be planted away from paved areas and from places where regular pruning is needed, as the natural geometry of the branches is an essential part of its identity. Once established, it shows good resistance to cold and wind.

Slow growth makes every mature specimen especially valuable. An Araucaria araucana from Diaplant immediately brings height, successive tiers of branching and an architectural presence that a young plant would take decades to achieve. Preparation of the root system in the nursery is particularly important in this species, allowing a mature conifer to be integrated into the project with greater transplanting security and an already fully recognisable structure.