Paraná Pine Monkey Puzzle

Paraná Pine

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.
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