monkey puzzle tree?

Discussion in 'Araucariaceae' started by Pattyree, Oct 25, 2008.

  1. Pattyree

    Pattyree Member

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    I have had this plant for about 5 years. I was told it is a monkey puzzle tree but have never seen one like it the garden books or on line. I did see one like it in our botanical garden but it was 20 ft. Mine is 4 ft. has spiney leaves that hurt alot when working with it. I put it out every summer and bring it back in the fall. It never does much except grow taller but grows very slowley. It is shaped like a norfolk pine but I know that is not because I have a Norfolk pine.
    This year, some of the branches and leaves have turned brown. I'm not sure what to do about it. If I cut the brown off it will look like a mutant.
     
  2. lorax

    lorax Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    Can you post a picture? It sounds like a monkey puzzle, but there are a number of different kinds. Seeing it would help us help you.
     
  3. Pattyree

    Pattyree Member

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    I just did more research and it's a bunya bunya.
     
  4. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    If it is just the older low shoots that are turning brown, it isn't a problem. If shoots near the top are turning brown, then it is in trouble.

    Low humidity and low light levels indoors could be a problem.
     
  5. Pattyree

    Pattyree Member

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    it is one side that is affected. That makes sense because I had it on the porch stairs and one side faced the porch. If it survives the winter inside , I'll put it on a lower stair in the spring. Thanks
     
  6. LilSprout

    LilSprout Active Member

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    Verrrrrrrrrrrry slow growing...
    You are talking about the Araucaria araucana
    Mature height: 30 ft.
    Mature width: 15 ft.
     
  7. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Nope, it turned out to be Bunya Araucaria bidwillii, which is a bit faster-growing than Araucaria araucana.
     

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