Monkey Puzzle Tree
Araucaria araucana
Planted 2020
This tree is originally from Chile and does best in humid, hot environments. It is a conifer and typically losses its branches as it grows. The leaves are spikes that spiral to the end of the branch. This tree is dioecious, with the female tree having large fruit. It is borderline hardy in northern Utah, and may suffer some dieback during colder winters.
| Height | Width | Zone | Growth Rate | Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50-80 ft. | 35 ft. | 7-11 | Medium | Medium |
Leaf
Spiral arrangement,
radially spreading,
evergreen, spiny and
stiff, 1-2” long, ½-1”
wide.
Fruit
Catkins, 4”male, 5-8”
pineapple shaped
female.
Flower
Not showy, blends in
at the tips, but does
turn brown.
Advantages
This tree makes a
statement and is sure
to attract attention,
does well in the heat.
Disadvantages
Spiky branches and
large fruit that is
several pounds (not a
tree to sit under);
does better in warmer
areas of Utah.