Monkey Puzzle Tree
Araucaria araucana
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
720 inches
Width
300 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Up to 1000 years
Native To
Chile and Argentina
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Araucaria araucana, commonly known as the Monkey Puzzle Tree, is an evergreen conifer with a distinctive pyramidal shape, stiff, scale-like leaves, and a striking, symmetrical silhouette. It produces large, globular cones and has dense, dark green foliage. This species is notable for its impressive height growth, unique spiny foliage that resembles puzzle pieces, and its status as a living fossil, making it a striking focal point in gardens and landscapes.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sheltered, well-drained site with acidic soil.
- Tuck seeds into moist soil, 1 inch deep, in early spring.
- Mist cuttings or young plants regularly to keep soil moist.
- Ensure the tree receives partial shade during hot afternoons.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant young trees in early spring or fall for best results.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained, acidic soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry periods to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in rainy seasons ❌
- Don't expose young trees to harsh afternoon sun ❌
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing, which can harm roots
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Monkey Puzzle Tree questions
What zones can Monkey Puzzle Tree grow in?
Monkey Puzzle Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Monkey Puzzle Tree deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Monkey Puzzle Tree, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Monkey Puzzle Tree bloom?
Monkey Puzzle Tree typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Monkey Puzzle Tree need full sun?
Monkey Puzzle Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Grow Monkey Puzzle Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
