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Plant Profiles / Mugo pine
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Mugo pine
Pinus mugo · Mountain pine
A dense, mounding dwarf pine for Japanese-style pots and rockeries.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Moderate.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-35–30°C (-31–86°F)
CoolWarm
Cool.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
60 cm–1.5 m.
Soil
Free-draining
LeanRich
Gritty.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.
About this plant
From European mountains. Very hardy; pinch spring candles to keep compact.
Best spots
Japanese-style pots and rockeries.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Pinus mugo |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Origin | European mountains |
| Plant type | Conifer |
| Mature size | 60 cm–1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Needles |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Seed |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Pinch candles
Pinch candles
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown needles | Dry or heat. |
| Scale | Oil. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Sparse | Shade. |
| Sawfly | Pick. |
Common questions
Pinch?
Spring candles.
Heat?
Struggles.
Pets?
Safe.
Bonsai?
Yes.
