Pinus mugo aka Dwarf Mountain Pine

Taxonomy

Pinus mugo, also known as bog pine, creeping pine, dwarf mountain pine, mugo pine, mountain pine, scrub mountain pine, or Swiss mountain pine, is a compact, slow-growing, dense, mound-forming conifer native to high elevation habitats in southwestern and Central Europe, as well as Southeast Europe. This species features upward facing branches that bear yellow tipped dark green needles. It produces small ovoid brown cones in the autumn. Mugo pine is a popular choice in landscaping due to its evergreen nature and many cultivars have been developed. These cultivars, including 'Mops', have a broad, spreading form and often grow wider than they do tall. 'Mops' is a true dwarf variety, remaining short and ideal for restricted spaces in the landscape where other pines may not be suitable.

Common names

Dwarf Mountain Pine, Scrub Mountain Pine, Mountain Pine, Bog Pine, Creeping Pine

How to care for Dwarf Mountain Pine

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Dwarf Mountain Pine is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Dwarf Mountain Pine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Dwarf Mountain Pine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Dwarf Mountain Pine requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Bog Pine will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Dwarf Mountain Pine is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Dwarf Mountain Pine displays clumping growth habits, with new shoots arising from the soil close to the parent plant.

Region of origin

Dwarf Mountain Pine’s native range is Europe, from the Alps to S. E. Europe..


More info:
Wikipedia