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Plant Informational Database

Araucaria

Araucaria bidwillii

a.k.a. False Monkey Puzzle Tree

Large conifer with a stately and distinctive growing shape. Bears huge, several pound cone fruits filled with large edible seeds.

Seed Availability

Seeds are not available for the Araucaria. Please visit our seed store to view current selections. Seeds were last available in January 2018.

Description

Large, columnar tree to 120ft. Interestingly, the tree can be easily grown as a house plant as container-bound trees will remain quite small. The species is dioecious, so both male and female trees are needed to produce fruits. Care should be taken to avoid large bunya-bunya's during fruiting season as the huge cones can be lethal as they fall from the high branches.

Hardiness

Hardy to the upper 20's (F).

Growing Environment

Trees grow very well in part-shade and full sun. Container plants grown as indoor specimens will thrive in low-light conditions. Needs regular water year-round. Tends not to be choosy about soil type.

Propagation

By seeds.

Uses

The seeds are edible and are considered a delicacy by Aboriginal Australians. The plant is also often grown as an ornamental for its unique appearance and easy culture. The wood is also used as timber.

Native Range

Native to rainforest regions of SE Queensland, Australia.

Related Species

Araucariaceae  
Araucaria bidwillii
Araucaria