Common Name: Monkey Puzzle Tree
Latin Name: Araucaria araucana
Family Name: Araucariaceae (Araucaria)
Geographical Range: Native to central and southern Chile and western Argentina
Fun Fact: The name “Monkey Puzzle” originated from the tree’s unusual, spiky branches that were said to be challenging for monkeys to climb.
Uses by people: This tree is highly valued for its timber, which is durable and rot-resistant. In its native range, the seeds (known as piñones) are traditionally used as a food source by the indigenous Mapuche people.
Uses by animals: Birds, like the Austral parakeet, and some mammals eat the tree’s seeds, which provide a nutritious food source.
Roles in their ecosystem: The Monkey Puzzle Tree provides essential habitat and food sources for various bird species and insects. Additionally, it plays a role in stabilizing soil in its native mountainous regions, preventing erosion.
