Paraná Pines are quite distinctive, with a bare columnar trunk, crowned with a flattened layer of whorled branches. The clusters of needle-like leaves at the ends of these branches gave rise to the species’ other common name, the candelabra tree. Early explorers in the region reported its seeds’ importance as a food source. Preparations of the tree’s leaves, bark, and resin are used for medicinal purposes. Grows at least 3 times the rate of its cousin from the other side of the continent, Araucaria araucana, and is sometimes referred to as the false monkey puzzle by some Chileans.

Latin Name: Araucaria angustifolia
Site and Soil: Paraná Pine likes 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description:
Pollination Requirements:  Seedlings will become either male or female trees. A male and female tree are required for nut production.
Hardiness: Parana Pine is hardy to approx. 5º F.
Bearing Age: 10 years
Size at Maturity: 30-40 ft. in height.
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Late Fall
Yield: 20+ lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Not bothered by pests or diseases
USDA Zone: 7

The post Paraná Pine Monkey Puzzle Tree appeared first on One Green World.

The Monkey Puzzle is a rare and unusual South American evergreen tree is unique for its tiers of stiff, pendulous branches that are covered with dark green, short, sharp pointed leaves. Mature specimens around Portland were reportedly from seedlings handed out at the 1905 World’s Fair and are beloved by Portlanders for their awe-inspiring stature and wild ancient looking shape. Monkey Puzzles produce an edible nut that has been eaten by the Mapuche people of Chile for millennia and is still highly valued to this day. Monkey Puzzles are dioecious so require a male and female trees to produce nuts. Gender of seedlings will not be known for 5-10 years.

Latin Name: Araucaria araucana
Site and Soil: Monkey Tree likes 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description:
Pollination Requirements: Monkey Tree seedlings will become either male or female trees. A male and female tree are required for nut production.
Hardiness: Monkey Tree is hardy to approx. 0º F.
Bearing Age: 10 years
Size at Maturity: 30-40 ft. in height.
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Late Fall
Yield: 20+ lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Monkey Puzzle is not bothered by pests or diseases
USDA Zone: 7
Sunset Western Zone: 4-9, 14-24
Sunset Northeast Zone: Not listed

The post Monkey Puzzle Evergreen Tree appeared first on One Green World.