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Description
Pinus Mugo Mughus, commonly known as Mugo pine, is a species of evergreen coniferous tree that belongs to the pine family Pinaceae. It is native to the high altitude mountain ranges of central and southern Europe, from the Pyrenees in Spain to the Balkans in southeastern Europe. It is a small, slow-growing tree that can reach up to 20 feet in height and 30 feet in width when mature. It has a dense, bushy growth habit and a low, spreading crown with multiple stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
Mugo pine has dark green, needle-like leaves that are about 1-3 inches long and grow in pairs. The needles are stiff and twisted, and they remain on the tree for up to 7 years. The tree also produces cones that are about 1-2 inches long and are initially green, but turn brown when mature. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and scaly, and it becomes rough and furrowed with age.
Care Guide
Mugo pine is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, but it prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Here are some tips for caring for your Mugo pine:
- Water: Water your tree deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant your tree in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Mugo pine prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Mugo pine is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mugo pine is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Pine sawfly: This insect feeds on the needles of the tree, causing them to turn brown and drop off.
- Pine needle scale: This insect produces a white, waxy coating on the needles of the tree, causing them to turn yellow and drop off.
- Pine blister rust: This fungal disease causes cankers to form on the bark of the tree, which can eventually kill it.
Habitat
Mugo pine is native to the high altitude mountain ranges of central and southern Europe, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil. It is commonly found in alpine regions, subalpine forests, and on rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mugo pine a good tree for small gardens?
A: Yes, Mugo pine is a great tree for small gardens because of its slow growth and compact size.
Q: Can Mugo pine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mugo pine can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Mugo pine require pruning?
A: Mugo pine does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or remove dead or diseased branches.
Q: Can Mugo pine be used for bonsai?
A: Yes, Mugo pine is a popular choice for bonsai because of its small size and slow growth.
Related Plants
- Pinus mugo
- Pinus strobus
- Pinus sylvestris
- Pinus nigra
References
- “Pinus mugo Mughus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=263087.
- “Pinus mugo.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7721/Pinus-mugo/Details.
- “Mugo Pine.” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/mugo-pine-profile-3269222.
