araucaria

Araucaria is a genus of evergreen conifers in the family Araucariaceae. The genus comprises about 20 species native to the Southern Hemisphere, including eastern Australia, New Guinea, Chile and Argentina, and several Pacific islands. Members are typically long‑lived trees with an umbrella‑like crown; juvenile foliage is needle‑like, while mature leaves are scale‑like. The trees produce large, woody cones and seeds.

Natural habitats range from temperate forests to montane subtropical forests. In Australia, species such as Araucaria cunninghamii and Araucaria bidwillii occur in upland areas; Araucaria heterophylla is native to Norfolk Island but widely cultivated. In South America, Araucaria araucana occupies the Andes and adjacent regions, while Araucaria angustifolia occurs in southern Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Many species are cultivated beyond their native range as ornamentals.

Notable species and uses: Araucaria araucana, the monkey puzzle tree, is native to Chile and Argentina. Araucaria bidwillii (bunya pine) produces large edible seeds, or bunya nuts, used by Indigenous Australians. Araucaria cunninghamii (hoop pine) is valued for timber; Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island pine) is widely grown as an ornamental tree and houseplant. Some species have timber value; others are primarily preserved in wild stands or botanical gardens.

Conservation and cultivation: Several Araucaria species face threats from habitat loss, logging, and fragmentation; in particular A. angustifolia and A. araucana have been subject to conservation concerns. The genus has a long fossil record, dating to the Mesozoic era, reflecting its ancient Gondwanan distribution. In cultivation, many species are grown in suitable temperate climates, and some are naturalized outside their native range.