Monkey Puzzle Tree
Araucaria araucana (Molina) K. Koch
Location
Administrative Block 1
Family
Araucariaceae
Common names
Monkey Puzzle Tree, Chilean Pine, Pehuén
Native range
South-central Chile and western Argentina, particularly in the Andes Mountains
Habitat
Naturally occurs in temperate mountainous regions, typically between 600 and 1,800 m elevation. It is commonly found on volcanic soils and well-drained slopes. The species is also cultivated as an ornamental in temperate regions worldwide due to its distinctive appearance and cold tolerance.
Flowering
Spring to early summer (varies with climate)
Fruiting
Cones mature in autumn, approximately 18–24 months after pollination
Conservation status
Endangered (EN) – due to habitat loss, overharvesting, and limited natural distribution
About this plant
Araucaria araucana has thick, rigid, sharply pointed leaves arranged spirally around the branches. Leaves are dark green, scale-like, and persist for many years. The species is dioecious, with male and female cones produced on separate trees. Female cones are large and spherical and take about two years to mature, producing large edible seeds known as piñones. The bark is thick and deeply fissured, providing protection against forest fires.
Uses
Widely valued as an ornamental tree in parks and botanical gardens. The seeds (piñones) are an important traditional food source for the indigenous Mapuche people of Chile and Argentina. The tree holds strong cultural and spiritual significance for native communities. Although the timber is durable, its use is restricted due to conservation concerns.
Growing conditions
Prefers full sunlight and well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Tolerant of cold temperatures and frost, making it suitable for temperate climates. Does not tolerate waterlogging or heavy clay soils and is best suited to open landscapes due to its large size and distinctive form
Habit
Slow-growing evergreen conifer that forms a tall, symmetrical pyramidal shape when young, becoming more irregular with age. It can reach heights of 30–50 m, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 m.