Araucaria araucana
monkey puzzle
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of Growth: slow
- Hardiness: fully hardy
The branches of this distinctive coniferous tree form in whorls around the main stem, clothed in sharply pointed, bright green leaves, which mature to a deeper green as they age. With its structural and eye-catching silhouette, this handsome evergreen looks great when planted as a focal point. It is a slow grower, but if you are planning for the future, then give it space, as once established this monkey puzzle will grow to a height of 25m or more - and produce really large cones! - Garden care: No pruning is needed. Keep well watered in its first year of growth.