Pinus mugo
Bergkiefer
Common names: Latsche, Legföhre, Bergföhre
Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova · CC BY 2.5 · Source
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Description
The Mountain Pine (Pinus mugo) is a low, densely branched evergreen shrub with dark‑green, paired needles and small oval cones. In the Alps it grows wild on cliffs and stone fields; in gardens it is mainly used in compact globe varieties such as ‘Mops’ for rock gardens and containers. It is exceptionally winter‑hardy, tolerating frost well below –20 °C and surviving harsh, windy sites without protection. The needles and young shoot tips contain essential oil and have been traditionally used for cold baths and inhalations; the plant is non‑poisonous and safe for children and pets in the garden.
Care instructions
Plant the Mountain Pine in full sun on well‑drained, somewhat poor soil; it does not tolerate waterlogging. Water regularly during the first one to two years if dry, then it copes well with natural rainfall. Pruning is rarely needed; to keep a compact shape, cut the young, bright green shoots in spring by about half. Fertilizer is usually unnecessary; a thin layer of compost in spring suffices. In a pot, use a container with good drainage as the roots are sensitive to wet feet.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lean, sandy, lime-loving
Feeding
Light feeder
Pruning
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