Araucaria araucana

Character & interest

A true architectural plant: regular silhouette, horizontal branches, “sculptural” habit. When young, it is dense and spiky; as it matures, it develops a strong trunk and a more open crown. The foliage is extremely long-lasting and offers an exotic look with no particular maintenance beyond establishment watering.

Colours

• Foliage : dark green to mid-green, evergreen.

• Bark : brown-grey, fissuring with age.

• Seasonal aspect : interest is mainly structural (shape) rather than flower color.

Habit & vigour

Initially conical, then a tree with a clear trunk and whorled, tiered branches. Slow to moderate growth. Because the leaves are very sharp, it’s best to avoid planting it next to narrow pathways.

Indicative size

Typical ranges (highly variable with climate and soil):

• often 10 to 20 m at maturity in European cultivation,

• potentially larger in very favorable conditions,

• spread generally 4 to 8 m depending on age and training.

Exposure

Sun to bright partial shade. It prefers a spot sheltered from drying winds and a well-drained soil. In regions with dry summers, good soil preparation and consistent watering during the first years greatly improve establishment.

Origin & history

Araucaria araucana is native to southern Chile and western Argentina, where it naturally grows on Andean slopes, often at altitude. The species is emblematic of araucaria forests and is protected due to the decline of its habitats; it is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in temperate regions.