Araucaria araucana

Araucaria araucana (pronunciation: /ˌærəˈkɛəriə ˌærəˈkɑːnə/), commonly known as the monkey puzzle tree, monkey tail tree, or Chilean pine, is an evergreen tree native to central and southern Chile and western Argentina.

Etymology

The name "Araucaria" comes from the Arauco province in Chile where the tree is found. The species name "araucana" is derived from the same region. The common name "monkey puzzle" originates from its early cultivation in Britain in about 1850, when the species was still rare in gardens and not widely known.

Description

Araucaria araucana is an evergreen tree growing to 1–1.5 m (3–5 ft) in diameter and 30–40 m (100–130 ft) in height. It is native to the Andes mountains of Chile and Argentina. It is the hardiest species in the conifer genus Araucaria. Because of the longevity of this species, it is described as a living fossil. It is also the national tree of Chile.

Related Terms

Conifer: A type of tree that produces cones and has needle-like leaves. Araucaria araucana is a type of conifer.
Evergreen: A tree that retains its leaves throughout the year. Araucaria araucana is an evergreen tree.
Living fossil: A living species that has no close living relatives, typically resembling species otherwise known only from fossils. Araucaria araucana is often described as a living fossil.

Uses

The wood of the Araucaria araucana tree is used for furniture and for construction. It is also a popular ornamental tree in parks and gardens.

Conservation

Araucaria araucana is listed as an endangered species by the IUCN and is protected in its native countries.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Araucaria araucana
Wikipedia's article - Araucaria araucana

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Araucaria araucana