Maintenance Landscaping Design

Monkey tree is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that is native to the tropics. It can grow up to 50 feet tall and has a wide, spreading canopy. The leaves are large, leathery, and oblong-shaped. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a small, yellow-orange drupe that is edible and has a sweet taste.

Alternative name

• Monkey Puzzle Tree
  
• Chilean Wine Palm
  
• Monkey Pod Tree
  
• Araucaria araucana
  
• Pehuen

Basic info

• The monkey tree is a species of fig tree native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.
  
• The tree gets its common name from the fact that monkeys often eat the fruit of the tree.
  
• The monkey tree can grow to be over 100 feet tall.
  
• The tree has large, leathery leaves that are up to 18 inches long.
  
• The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that turn into greenish-yellow fruits.
  
• The fruits of the monkey tree are eaten by a variety of animals, including birds, bats, and monkeys.
  
• Humans also eat the fruit of the monkey tree, which is sometimes used to make jam or jelly.
  
• The wood of the monkey tree is hard and durable, and is sometimes used for furniture or flooring.
  
• The monkey tree is considered to be an invasive species in some parts of the world, such as Florida in the United States.
  
• The monkey tree is also known by its scientific name, Ficus aurea.

Related plant:
Tree Monkey

How to Grow

1. For monkey tree, first step is to plant the tree. You need to make sure that the tree gets enough sunlight and water.
   
2. The second step is to fertilize the tree. You need to use a high quality fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus.
   
3. The third step is to prune the tree. You need to prune the branches that are growing too close to the trunk.
   
4. The fourth step is to water the tree. You need to water the tree regularly so that the roots can absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
   
5. The fifth step is to mulch the tree. You need to put a layer of mulch around the base of the tree. This will help to keep the roots cool and moist.
   
6. The sixth step is to fertilize the tree again. You need to use a high quality fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus.
   
7. The seventh step is to prune the tree again. You need to prune the branches that are growing too close to the trunk.
   
8. The eighth step is to water the tree again. You need to water the tree regularly so that the roots can absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
   
9. The ninth step is to mulch the tree again. You need to put a layer of mulch around the base of the tree. This will help to keep the roots cool and moist.
   
10. The tenth and final step is to fertilize the tree one last time. You need to use a high quality fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus.

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, the monkey tree prefer well-drained, average to slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The tree is not particular about soil type but does best in deep, sandy loams. It has good drought tolerance but grows fastest when it receives regular water. The monkey tree is also tolerant of salt and brackish water.

Light condition

Not too different with other trees, monkey trees need sunlight to grow. They need at least six hours of sunlight each day to stay healthy. If they don't get enough sunlight, they will start to yellow and their leaves will droop. When this happens, they will need to be moved to a sunnier location.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition in the monkey tree is perfect for monkeys. They are able to swing from branch to branch without getting too hot or too cold. The leaves of the tree provide shade and the branches are the perfect size for them to grip onto.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40-50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, usually the plant food, is important for the development of the root system in young trees. It is best to use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen content for the first few years after planting. The tree's roots will grow quickly during this time and the extra nitrogen will help to ensure that the tree remains healthy. Once the tree is established, you can switch to a fertilizer that is lower in nitrogen content.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a monkey tree is not difficult, but it is important to do it properly. The first step is to remove any dead or damaged branches. Next, cut back any branches that are growing too close to the trunk or that are rubbing against other branches. Finally, trim any branches that are longer than the others.

The Propagation

Propagation is typically done by taking a cutting from the desired plant and growing it in water or soil. Place the cutting in a jar or pot of water and place it in a sunny spot. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. After a few weeks, roots should begin to grow. Once the roots are a few inches long, the cutting can be planted in soil.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 1.5 to 2.5 m (5 to 8 ft) a year. The plant is relatively fast growing for the first few years. However, the growth slows down as the canopy closes. The plant can grow up to 20 m (65 ft) tall.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant plants are root rot, pests, and diseases. Root rot is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and it can kill the plant. Pests, such as aphids, scale, and mealybugs, can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. Diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, can also harm the plant.

Tips on Growing

• Make sure to plant your monkey tree in an area that receives full sun.
  
• Be sure to plant your monkey tree in an area with well-drained soil.
  
• Water your monkey tree regularly, especially during the first few growing seasons.
  
• Fertilize your monkey tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your monkey tree as needed to maintain its shape and size.
  
• Protect your monkey tree from strong winds and heavy rains.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them promptly.
  
• Harvest the fruits of your monkey tree when they are ripe.
  
• Store the fruits of your monkey tree in a cool, dry place.
  
• Enjoy the delicious fruits of your monkey tree!

Alternative Plants

• Banyan
  
• Banana
  
• bamboo
  
• Beech
  
• Birch
  
• Bog Myrtle
  
• Bramble
  
• Brazilwood

Source:
Araucaria araucana (Chilean Pine, Chile Nut, Chile Pine, Monkey …
Reconstructing the New World Monkey Family Tree | Duke Today
Monkey Puzzle - Araucaria araucana - PNW Plants