Monkey Puzzle Strip
A long, sheltered bed running along the western side of the garden, defined by the imposing presence of the Monkey Puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana). The canopy creates dappled shade that suits a layered planting of acid-loving ornamentals and woodland ground cover.
Plants
| Plant | Type | Season of Interest | Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monkey Puzzle | Evergreen conifer | Year-round structure | → |
| Pieris japonica | Evergreen shrub | Winter–spring flowers; coloured new growth | → |
| Camellia japonica | Evergreen shrub | Winter–spring flowers | → |
| Arum italicum | Tuberous perennial | Autumn–spring foliage; summer berries | → |
| Lilac | Deciduous shrub | Late spring flowers (fragrant) | → |
Photos — March 22, 2026
Photos — March 20, 2026
Character
The strip has a structured, layered feel — the towering Monkey Puzzle provides the canopy, with Pieris and Camellia forming the mid-storey, and Arum italicum carpeting the woodland floor. Drip irrigation has been installed to support the established shrubs. An orange marker flag near the Monkey Puzzle was noted in March 2026.
Notes
- Mulch annually to maintain soil acidity and moisture under the Pieris and Camellia
- Arum italicum self-seeds freely — pull unwanted seedlings in spring
- Camellia flower colour not yet documented — photograph when in bloom
- TODO: Area near base of strip (photographed March 20) is sparse — plan what to plant here