The araucaria, also known as the monkey tree or Andean fir, comes from the Andes in South America and has very deep roots. It is therefore not suitable for every location and often causes damage to buildings and underground pipes. Read everything you need to know about the roots of the araucaria, its growth and requirements here.
How deep and wide do the roots of araucaria grow?
The roots of the araucaria, also known as the monkey tree, are deep-rooted and can penetrate several meters deep into the ground. They require loose, permeable soil, are sensitive to waterlogging and can damage underground pipes.
How deep do the roots of araucaria go?
The araucaria is adeep rooter The taproots of the conifer can grow several meters deep both in its native South America and in German gardens. How deep the roots actually become depends on the nature of the soil, the age and the growth of the monkey tree. In contrast, the root system only expands slightly in width. The roots branch out little and there are correspondingly few fine roots. However, the few side roots can be slightly wider than the crown.
What properties do the roots of araucaria have?
Because the roots grow so deep, the taproots can absorbmoisture from deep layers of the earth. It is therefore relatively rare for an araucaria to dry up. The deep roots can damage underground pipes or cables. Therefore, when planting, care should be taken to ensure that the area under the araucaria is clear. There should also be enough soil under the planting hole and there should be no layers of rock that the roots cannot penetrate.
How much water can the roots of araucaria tolerate?
The roots are quite resilient, but they react sensitively towaterlogging. Prolonged waterlogging can cause the roots to rot, thereby damaging the entire tree. Fungi can also spread more easily on moist roots. It is therefore important to ensure that the soil is permeable and loose when planting so that rain and irrigation water does not accumulate. Young araucarias in particular should be watered moderately as well as when necessary.
Tip
Sufficient space for the roots of the araucaria
When choosing the future location of your araucaria, you should think ahead in order to enjoy your monkey tree in the long term. The soil should not only be loose and permeable, but also provide enough space for the roots. Underground shafts, lines or ducts should therefore not be present or installed. Cellars, large stones or layers of rock are also unfavorable for the location of the araucaria. Although the roots do not grow very wide, you should also ensure there is enough space around the tree to the street or buildings so that not only the roots but also the branches can spread unhindered.
