This genus of evergreen, coniferous trees is endemic to tropical rainforests that have a dry Winter, with 14 of the 19 species restricted to New Caledonia in the Pacific Ocean. They are large trees, reaching heights of up to 80m, that produce male or female cones in Summer and have horizontal spreading branches. These are covered in needle-like or flat, sharp leaves that grow in spirals. This genus contains the famous monkey puzzle tree, also known as the Chilean pine, Araucaria araucana which is the only one suitable for a temperate climate.