Have you ever seen a tree that looks like it belongs in a prehistoric landscape? That’s the Monkey puzzle tree. This tree before you is a living relic from the Jurassic period.
The Monkey puzzle tree is named so because someone thought monkeys would find it difficult to climb. Its sharp spiky leaves served as a defense against browsing dinosaurs. Imagine those giant creatures trying to munch on this prickly thing.
Originally from the lower slopes of the Andes in Chile and Argentina, the Monkey puzzle tree first came to Britain in 1795. Archibald Menzies, attending a banquet in Chile, took some nuts and germinated six of them. These seeds started the British fascination with this unusual tree.
This Monkey puzzle tree can grow up to 25 meters tall here. In its natural habitat, it can double that height. The branches start growing upwards but eventually droop because of their weight. Each leaf can live for 15 years photosynthesizing.
The Monkey puzzle tree is usually either male or female. Male cones dangle in groups at the ends of branches. Female cones grow singly and upwards. This particular tree is a female. It produces large round cones that take two years to mature. You might spot a smaller male Monkey puzzle tree nearby.
The wood of the Monkey puzzle tree is strong and easy to work with. It was used for boat building and is still used for carpentry. The nuts are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They’ve even been used to make alcoholic drinks. Though here, squirrels and jays are more likely to enjoy them.
Interestingly, Whitby jet, a gemstone, comes from fossilized Monkey puzzle trees or their relatives.
Sadly, Monkey puzzle trees are endangered in their native lands due to logging and forest fires. Conservation efforts are underway. Some forests of Monkey puzzle trees have been planted in the UK to preserve the species. Planting one in your garden can help too but remember they need lots of space.
When young, the Monkey puzzle tree has a pyramidal shape. As it matures, it loses its lower branches. This gives it a rounder crown. It doesn’t need much pruning. Its distinctive shape develops naturally.
So, as you stand before this Monkey puzzle tree. Remember you are looking at a survivor. It has stood the test of time. This tree a testament to nature’s resilience.