Dwarf mountain pine (Pinus mugo var. pumilio)

Dwarf mountain pine

Features and Characteristics

Pinus mugo, commonly known as mugo pine or Swiss mountain pine, is a broad-spreading pine which is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe. It will grow to 20’ tall, but is often seen much shorter in a shrubby form. Dark green needles (1-3″ long) appear in bundles of two.

Var. pumilio is a dwarf form with a dense, spreading habit. It often grows prostrate with upright branching. It typically matures over time to 3-5′ tall by 6-10′ wide.

Genus name comes from the Latin name for pines.

Mugo is reportedly an ancient Tyrolean name with an unknown definition.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in moist, well-drained loams in full sun. Grows well in sandy soils, but is also somewhat tolerant of clays. Avoid poorly-drained wet soils. Plants prefer cool summer climates. Plants are generally tolerant of urban conditions. Prune annually in late winter to retain compact size. Unpruned plants may outgrow designated planting spaces as they mature.

Dwarf mountain pine (Pinus mugo var. pumilio) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

Pines are generally difficult to grow well in the St. Louis area because of soil and climate. Mugo pine is susceptible to tip blight, rusts and rots. Pine needle scale and sawflies can be serious problems in some areas. Moths and borers may appear.

Uses

Dwarf evergreen for rock gardens. Also appropriate for foundation plantings.

Dwarf mountain pine (Pinus mugo var. pumilio) Details

Common name	Dwarf mountain pine
Botanical name	Pinus mugo var. pumilio
Plant type	Needled evergreen
Family	Pinaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Non-flowering
Flowering period	Non-flowering
Height	3 - 5 ft.
Width	6 - 10 ft.