Araucaria angustifolia aka Brazilian Pine

Araucaria angustifolia is an evergreen tree. It belongs to the Araucariaceae family. Gardeners call it Paraná pine or Brazilian pine. It is native to southern and southeastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina. Other sources list Paraguay as part of its range too. It grows in moist mixed forests, often on high ground. Useful Tropical Plants lists its status as Critically Endangered. Heavy cutting for timber has shrunk its former range a great deal.

Young trees have a narrow crown shaped like a pyramid. As trees age, their crowns grow round or umbrella-shaped. Much of the straight trunk may have no branches. RHS gives a garden height above 39 feet [12 metres]. It lists a spread above 26 feet [8 metres]. Broader accounts give heights of 66–164 feet [20–50 metres]. These figures set no firm upper size for garden trees. Growth is slow; trees can take 20–50 years to mature. The thick leaves have three sides, with sharp edges and tips. They grow in a spiral around small branches. They form groups near the ends of these branches.

Male and female cones tend to grow on separate trees. Wind moves the pollen; the species cannot fertilise itself. Male cones are long and narrow. Female cones are round and much wider. They can take three years to ripen on the tree. People gather large amounts of seeds for local markets. These seeds, called pinhão, are a winter food in southern Brazil. They feel floury and taste a little sweet. The tree yields gum that people can eat too. Sources list no known hazards. They give no specific view on safety for pets.

Grow this tree in sun or part shade, with shelter. It needs moist soil that drains well, with a fair nutrient level. Soil that is a little acid suits it best. RHS lists a wider pH range, from acid to alkaline. RHS gives it H3 hardiness for mild or coastal UK sites. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 9–12. Its large crown gives shape to large gardens. It needs little pruning; cuts can spoil its natural shape.

RHS reports few pest problems, though honey fungus may attack. The wood is light, soft, and easy to work. Fungi, termites, and dry-wood borers can harm the wood. The bark yields resin too. Sources note folk use as medicine but name no specific treatments. To grow new trees, sow fresh seed once ripe. Cuttings from upright shoot tips offer another way. Side-branch cuttings will not grow into upright trees.