Araucaria Plant Care Guide
Araucarias, also known as monkey puzzle trees, are unique evergreen conifers that make for interesting houseplants with their striking symmetrical branch structure. Native to South America, these plants thrive in bright light and consistent moisture. With the right care, araucarias can live for many decades indoors.
Light Requirements
Araucarias need very bright light to grow their best indoors. Direct sunlight is ideal, such as from a south- or west-facing window. They can tolerate a couple hours of direct, hot sun each day. If the plant doesn’t receive enough light, its growth will become sparse and leggy as it stretches towards the light source.
Water Needs
Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Araucarias do not tolerate drought and will drop needles if underwater. However, take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Temperature
Araucarias prefer cool to moderate indoor temperatures between 60 and 75°F. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, down to around 50°F in winter. Avoid letting them sit in drafty areas. High heat and dry air can cause needle browning.
Humidity
These plants appreciate higher humidity levels, around 40–50%. Use a humidity tray, frequent misting, or run a humidifier nearby to increase ambient moisture. Dry air can cause needle loss.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix made for acid-loving plants like azaleas. Araucarias prefer slightly acidic soil in the 5.5–6.5 pH range. A mix containing peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well.
Fertilizer
Feed every 2-3 months during the spring and summer growing seasons with an acidic liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when growth is minimized.
Pruning
Very little pruning is required for araucarias. At most, snip off any stray or damaged branches with clean pruners. The plants naturally develop their distinctive geometric shape on their own.
Repotting
Repot araucarias every 2-3 years in the spring before new growth emerges. Go up only 2″ in pot size, as the plants prefer being somewhat rootbound.
Pests
Monitor for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale, which can be combatted with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
With their unique dinosaur-like appearance, araucarias make for fascinating specimen plants when their care needs are met properly. Follow these tips, and enjoy these striking plants in your indoor space for years to come.
FAQs
Q: How much sunlight does an araucaria need?
Araucarias require very bright direct sunlight, ideally from a south- or west-facing window. They need at least 4-6 hours of direct sun per day to grow well indoors.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for araucarias?
Araucarias prefer cool to moderate temperatures between 60 and 75°F. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures down to around 50°F in winter but can’t take high heat.
Q: How often should I water my araucaria plant?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry, allowing the excess to drain out. Don’t let the soil dry out completely or stay soggy. Consistent moisture is key.
Q: Is humidity important for araucaria plants?
A: Yes, araucarias appreciate higher humidity, around 40–50%. Using a pebble tray, misting, or running a humidifier can help prevent dry air, which can cause needle browning and loss.
Q: What kind of soil is best for these plants?
An acidic, well-draining potting mix made for acid-loving plants like azaleas is ideal, with a pH around 5.5–6.5. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well.
Q: How often should araucarias be fertilized?
Feed every 2-3 months in spring and summer with an acidic, half-strength liquid fertilizer. Hold off on fertilizing in the winter.
Q: Do araucarias need to be pruned?
A: Very little pruning is required. At most, snip off any damaged branches, as the plants will naturally develop their striking geometric shape.
Q: When is the best time to repot araucarias?
A: Repot every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth emerges, going up only 1-2 inches in pot size as they prefer being rootbound.
Q: Are araucaria plants toxic to pets?
A: No, araucarias are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and other household pets, making them a safer option as an indoor plant.
Following the right araucaria plant care will allow you to enjoy the distinct look of this unusual plant for many years. Let me know if you have any other questions!
