Araucaria angustifolia
Care, watering, light and tips for Araucaria angustifolia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araucariaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Araucaria angustifolia
Araucaria angustifolia, commonly known as Parana Pine or Brazilian Pine, is an imposing coniferous tree native to South America. Its distinctive pyramidal silhouette and whorled branches with stiff, lanceolate leaves make it a majestic ornamental species, ideal for large gardens, parks, and urban woodlands where an architectural focal point is desired.
Native range
Subtropical forests of southern Brazil, northeastern Argentina, and eastern Paraguay.
Care tips
It requires full sun and well-drained soils, preferably acidic to neutral. During the first few years, watering should be regular to establish the tree, reducing it once mature, as it tolerates periods of drought. A common mistake is planting it in waterlogged or highly alkaline soils, which can lead to chlorosis and poor development. It is important to protect young specimens from intense frosts.
How to save a dying Araucaria angustifolia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown needles, especially older ones, falling excessively. Branches drying from tips downwards. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure good aeration. Avoid waterlogging. Repot if soil is heavy. Protect from strong winds.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and compacted soils suffocating roots. Also prolonged drought and nutrient-poor soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and main trunk is undamaged. Act quickly to correct environment.