Araucaria araucana or the Monkey Puzzle Tree is an evergreen conifer that is popular in cultivation due to its rather thick and wildly curvy branches, while forming an overall quite symmetrical, pyramidal appearance.
The leaves are stiff, dark green and somewhat glossy with a spiny tip. They completely cover each branch, closely overlapping each other giving an almost reptilian effect.
The horizontal branches are produced in tiers and have few side branches with the tips often turning upwards, not unlike a monkey's tail.
It likes temperate climates with plenty of rainfall and is the hardiest member of the Araucaria genus, which includes the Norfolk Island Pine.
They grow well in Australia, especially along the south east coast and are quite tolerant of salty winds, but they do not handle urban pollution that well (again similar to the Norfolk Island Pine).
Best grown as a feature specimen with plenty of room around it to be able to admire its unique qualities.