Monkey Puzzle Tree
Araucaria araucana
Overview
The Monkey Puzzle Tree, also known as Araucaria araucana, has an impressive and unique look sure to impress. It's extraordinarily tall, cone-shaped crown, combined with its tough, spiky evergreen leaves create an austere and mysterious look. It's a symbol of ancient forests, having survived many ice ages and growing to heights of over 175 feet. This tree has one of the longest lifespans of any species, living to an impressive 2000 years. It's a hardy species, adapted to survive many climates, making it a great choice for landscaping. The Monkey Puzzle Tree is truly an amazing specimen sure to draw admiration and attention.
Care Guide
Watering
Monkey Puzzle Trees need to be watered about once or twice a week, and should always be kept moist. The root ball should not be allowed to dry out for extended periods of time, as this can cause the tree to become limp and weak. Watering should be done early in the morning to avoid stressing the roots and allowing the tree to take up water before the heat of the day sets in. During summer, it is best to water the tree twice, once in the morning and once in the evening when temperatures are lower.
Light
Monkey Puzzle Trees need full sun to partial shade. They prefer at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The sun should be more direct in the morning and should remain more indirect as the day progresses. Tree should be protected from strong winds and scorching temperatures. If the tree is kept in more than 8 hours of direct sunlight it can cause the needles to turn yellow and brown, or even drop off prematurely.
Soil
Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 8-8.
Pruning
Monkey Puzzle Tree should be pruned in the early spring (March or April) every year, as soon as the new growth begins. Prune out dead, broken, or crossed branches and branches that are too close together in order to improve the structure and health of the tree. Pruning should generally be done sparingly, as this is a slow-growing tree and can be damaged easily. As a general rule, prune out no more than 1/3 of the total branches in any given season. In addition, trim back the leading growth to encourage side branches, so that a good, full canopy is maintained.
Propagation
Seed Propagation, Greenwood Cuttings, Greenwood Cuttings, Hardwood Cuttings
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Root rot, Scale insects, Pest resistant, Disease resistant, Deer resistant, Rabbit resistant .
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