Monkey-puzzle tree

The Monkey-puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana), also known as the Monkey Tail tree, is the Chilean national tree. The coniferous evergreen is especially widespread in southern Chile as well as in western Argentina, in the relatively low-lying parts of the Andes Mountains. In its original surroundings the tree may grow up to 35 meters tall. In Superkilen, however, it is unlikely to exceed 8 meters. The name refers to the European notion that monkeys must have difficulties climbing it. Throughout time the tree has held a special significance to the indigenous Mapuche population of the Andes Mountains, who consider it divine and utilise the fruit for food and to produce alcohol. In recent years the tree’s Mapuche name, Pehuén, has also become more commonly used outside Chile.