Chilean araucaria

Profile

Family

Araucariaceae

Habit

Tree

Height

35 m

Spread

20 m

Growth

very slow

Lifespan

1500 years

First yield

after 28 years

Hardiness

zone 7–11

Shade tolerance

partial shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam

Soil moisture

semi-dry – very moist

pH

5.5 – 7.5

Synonyms

Araukarie, Araukarienbaum

Flowering & harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible: Seeds can be consumed either raw or cooked, being high in starch. They have a soft texture similar to cashew nuts with a subtle pine nut taste, making them delicious and enjoyable to eat. These seeds, about the size of an almond (3 cm long x 1 cm wide), can be eaten in significant amounts and are a dietary staple. Harvested in the autumn, they can be stored for a minimum of 9 months in a cool, dry location.

Medicinal: The leaves or the entire herb have cardiotonic, diuretic, and antihypertensive properties. They are utilized in managing hypertensive headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irritability, oliguria, and renal edema, enhancing renal blood flow. Additionally, they can address renal and cardiac edema, along with ascites in liver cirrhosis.

Other uses: Trees can withstand salty air well and are suitable for shelterbelt planting. They grow slowly with a sparse canopy that provides limited protection. Resin extracted from the trunk is mainly used for medicinal reasons. The pale yellowish wood is high-quality, polishes beautifully, and is utilized in joinery and carpentry.

Growing

The monkey puzzle tree thrives in deep, well-drained soil but cannot withstand hot, dry conditions or air pollution. It shows great resilience to coastal exposure and salty winds. This tree has a slow growth rate, typically taking 5-10 years to surpass grass height, with new growth appearing between late June and September. Indigenous communities in Chile rely on the seeds of the monkey puzzle tree as a primary food source, which are also available in local markets. With its high yield, large flavorful seeds, and ease of cultivation, the monkey puzzle tree holds promise as a potential future commercial crop. However, its slow growth and time to first harvest are notable drawbacks. Given its dioecious nature, one male tree is needed for every 5-6 female trees, although vegetative propagation methods may allow for gender-specific clones in the future. Planting at least five trees now could prove beneficial as a future food source. The monkey puzzle tree thrives in the southwest regions and along the west coast of the area where it produces abundant seeds. Female cones mature over two to three years, releasing up to 200 large seeds at the year's end. Natural self-seeding occurs in Cornwall. Notable seed crops have been reported in various locations in Cornwall, Devon, and the west coast of Scotland. Exceptional harvests were documented in 1997 at Alvaston Castle near Derby and in Bedfordshire. Susceptibility to honey fungus is a common issue for these trees, although they can be deadheaded, unlike most conifers.

Propagation

Seeds should be sown right after they ripen in a cool environment or kept in a cool, damp place for later sowing in a greenhouse during February. While the plants can withstand cold temperatures, it's important to shield the seedlings' root systems from potential damage in extremely cold weather. Typically, seeds will sprout within 1-2 months at 15°C. Once the seedlings are sufficiently grown, they should be transferred to individual pots. These plants have limited root systems and should be relocated to their permanent spots promptly. Some protection is advisable during their initial winter. Cuttings should be taken from semi-ripe shoots between May and July in a cool setting. It's crucial to use only epicormic side branches for proper development; regular side branches won't grow correctly. An epicormic shoot originates from a dormant bud on the tree's main trunk.

Notable

Special features: coastal salt and wind tolerant; Origin: very limited region in the high Andes from 600-1700m at -20 to +30°C and 1-4.5m annual rainfall; Threatened with extinction; Takes 5-10 years to outgrow the grass; Populations need an oceanic climate + deep + moist soil; An Andean Indian tribe lived mainly on the seeds.

Origin & habitat

Southern Chile is famous for its beautiful landscapes, which include snow-covered mountains and charming lakes. The area provides numerous outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and water sports. Tourists can also explore the vibrant culture of the native Mapuche community and taste authentic local cuisine. A trip to southern Chile guarantees a remarkable adventure surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Found in open woodland and bushy heathland, typically on less fertile soils, where it can be the predominant species.

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