The Mugo Pine grows in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, well drained, clay soils.
This species has many varieties, reflecting the great variability of its growth habits. Its abilities to grow so easily in so many places coupled with its relatively smaller size has made this tree a favorite landscape plant throughout suburban America.
Generally planted as an ornamental, this evergreen has an interesting pyramidal or broad-spreading form. It has dark green needles. Grows to 20'. (zones 3-7)
The Mugo Pine provides cover for mammals and birds.
The name of this tree is confusing, with many sources using the spelling "Mugho." But the eminent horticulturist Liberty Hyde Bailey wrote in 1933 that the original, scientific naming of the species in 1764 was Mugo, with Mugho being one of its several natural varieties. The Mugo Pine tree is native in the high mountains of central Europe. There it grows low to the ground in mounds like a creature huddling against the cold winds. This growth form is easily retained through pruning or shearing.
Normal moisture requirements; drought tolerant.
This tree has stout, dark green needles 1 to 2 inches long. They are borne in bundles of two and grow densely on the branch, often remaining green for up to 6 years before turning brown and dropping.
Oval; 1 to 2 inches long; dry; brown.