Mugo Pine

General
Scientific Name: Pinus mugo
Family: Pinaceae (Pine)
Hardiness: Zone 2
Leaves: Evergreen
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Slow
Mature Height: <25’
Longevity: Medium
Power Line: Yes

Ornamental
Flowers: Inconspicuous
Fruit: Brown cones
Fall Color: n/a

A small- to large-sized shrubby evergreen which varies in form and size. The Swiss mountain pine (P. mugo ssp. uncinata) is a treeform of mugo pine. Introduced from Europe in 1779. Needles persist for more than 5 years. Dark green color year-round and resists winter burn.

Light: Full sun only.
Water: Drought resistant, no watering necessary.
Soil: Adaptable to many soil types.

Prized for its dwarf cultivars which are useful in landscape plantings, over 40 dwarf cultivars are available including some that are excellent for railroad and miniature gardens.

Two cultivars to consider are:

'Gnom’ - Very dwarf mounded form.

'Mops’ - Dwarf globe, 3 feet tall and wide.

Credits: Tree Selector Website, North Dakota Tree Handbook