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monkeypuzzle tree

Scientific Name: Araucaria araucana

Family: Araucariaceae

Category: Gymnosperm

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Araucaria araucana: The Monkey Puzzle Tree

Araucaria araucana, commonly known as the Monkey Puzzle Tree, Monkey Tail Tree, Chilean Pine, or Pehuen, is a distinctive and enduring evergreen tree with a fascinating history and unique appearance.

Considerations for Pets

  • The tree has branches clothed in sharp leaves.

Considerations for Children

  • The tree has branches clothed in stiff sharp leaves.
  • A 150-year-old monkey puzzle tree is possibly being cut due to its needles posing a danger.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Araucaria araucana
  • Common Names: Monkey Puzzle Tree, Monkey Tail Tree, Chilean Pine, Pehuen
  • Family: Araucariaceae
  • The plant is also referred to as Chile Pine.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to central and southern Chile and western Argentina.
  • Specifically, it grows in a restricted range within the Andes mountain range.
  • It thrives on the slopes of rocky volcanoes.

Morphological Characteristics

  • An evergreen tree, typically growing to 30-40 meters (100-130 ft) in height.
  • Can reach a diameter of 1-1.5 meters (3-5 ft). Some sources state the tree may grow to a height of 45–50 metres (150–164 feet) with a diameter of 2.5 metres (8 feet).
  • Mature trees possess tall, straight trunks and an umbrella of branches at the crown.
  • Young trees have branches that may be shaped like a candelabrum.
  • Branches are described as growing in a whorled, strictly layered arrangement.

Ecological Role

  • Its bark is fire-resistant, enabling "islands" of trees to survive lava flows.

Quirky Facts

  • Monkey Puzzle Trees can live for up to 1,000 years.
  • The Monkey Puzzle Tree can be traced back to the Jurassic period and is closely linked to both Amber and Jet.
  • The seeds are edible, similar to large pine nuts, and are extensively harvested in Chile.