Paraná pine (Araucaria angustifolia)

This special and rare conifer has decorative leaves. The leaves are elongated and quite wide and have sharp edges with a sharp point. Each leaf stays on the tree for up to 10 to 15 years, making the growth form very ornamental. The species comes from southern Brazil and is unfortunately threatened with extinction. This is mainly due to logging and the expansion of agricultural land. But also, the seeds of the tree are collected by the local population to eat as a delicacy, so young growth is lacking. 

The tree can reach a height of 40 meters in the wild and is found on moist slopes in subtropical climates. The cones can grow up to 30 cm in size and contain many large seeds. These seeds are eaten by various mammals and birds, including the Ingram's squirrel and the Azure jay. 

In the Netherlands, the species can be kept as a tub plant, where an occasional night of frost is not a problem. If the frost starts to increase, the plant can be overwintered in a frost-free place. Furthermore, it is important to provide a well-drained soil with regular water and a sunny location. 

Sowing description: Sow the seeds directly into sowing and cutting soil. Keep the soil constantly lightly moist and place at 20-25°C.