Monkey Puzzle Indoors: The Ultimate Guide to Growing This Unique Houseplant

Houseplants are a great addition to any home or office, providing numerous benefits such as cleaner air and a calming atmosphere. While there are many popular houseplants, one that stands out for its unique appearance is the Monkey Puzzle tree, also known as Araucaria araucana. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about growing Monkey Puzzle indoors.

The Fascinating History of the Monkey Puzzle Tree

The Monkey Puzzle tree is a species that can be traced back to prehistoric times, with fossils dating back over 200 million years. Native to Chile and Argentina, it was first introduced to Europe in the 1800s by Scottish plant hunter Archibald Menzies. The tree's unusual name comes from a comment made by a visitor to Menzies' garden who remarked that climbing it would puzzle a monkey.

Why Choose the Monkey Puzzle Tree for Your Indoor Garden?

While the Monkey Puzzle tree is decidedly not an easy plant to care for, it makes up for it with its unique and striking appearance. Its needle-like leaves grow tightly together on branches that spiral upward, giving it a distinct and recognizable look. Additionally, as a slow-growing tree, it can stay indoors for several years before needing to be repotted or transplanted outdoors.

How to Care for Your Monkey Puzzle Tree

Caring for your Monkey Puzzle tree requires patience and attention to detail. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Lighting

Monkey Puzzle trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a south-facing window, but make sure it is not getting direct sunlight. If your plant is not getting enough light, the needles will begin to turn brown.

Watering

These trees do not need much water, so be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and never let the pot sit in standing water. Overwatering can cause root rot and ultimately kill the tree.

Humidity

Monkey Puzzle trees prefer high humidity, so consider using a humidifier if your home or office has particularly dry air. Alternatively, you can place a tray of water near the plant or mist it regularly.

Temperature

These trees are adapted to cooler temperatures, so keep them away from radiators or other sources of heat. Ideally, they should be kept in a room with temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C).

Repotting and Transplanting

As mentioned earlier, Monkey Puzzle trees are slow-growing, so they can stay in their original pots for several years. When it is time to repot, use well-draining soil and a container that is only a few inches larger than the current pot. If you plan to transplant your tree outdoors, wait until it is at least five years old and has outgrown its indoor space.

A close-up of a Monkey Puzzle tree's needle-like leaves.

Pests and Diseases

While Monkey Puzzle trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, they can still fall victim to spider mites or scale insects. Keep an eye out for yellowing leaves or tiny webs on the foliage, and treat the plant with a gentle insecticide if necessary. Additionally, make sure to keep the plant's environment clean and free of debris, which can attract pests and disease.

Overwatering can cause the needles on a Monkey Puzzle tree to turn brown.

The Bottom Line

Growing a Monkey Puzzle tree indoors can be a rewarding experience for those looking to add a unique plant to their collection. While these trees require more attention than some other houseplants, their striking appearance and prehistoric history make them well worth the effort. With proper care and attention, your Monkey Puzzle tree can thrive for years to come.

Keyword: Monkey Puzzle Indoors, Araucaria araucana, Houseplants, Indoor Garden, Pests and Diseases