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RedCrocus Dwarf Mugo Pine 'Pumilio' (Pinus mugo) – Live Evergreen Conifer, Cold-Hardy Zones 2–7, Deer Resistant, Low-Maintenance, Slow-Growing, Great for Rock Gardens & Containers 3 Gallon Nursery Pot

RedCrocus Dwarf Mugo Pine 'Pumilio' (Pinus mugo) – Live Evergreen Conifer, Cold-Hardy Zones 2–7, Deer Resistant, Low-Maintenance, Slow-Growing, Great for Rock Gardens & Containers 3 Gallon Nursery Pot

$180.00 USD
$234.00 USD $180.00 USD
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ber285c-redcrocus

Pot Size

Pinus Mugo 'pumilio'

Description

A compact, ground-hugging selection of mugo pine forming a dense, rounded-spreading mound of short, dark-green needles. Extremely hardy, wind- and salt-tolerant, and prized for its tidy habit and minimal maintenance in rock gardens, borders, and containers.

Suggested Uses

Rock and alpine gardens, front-of-border structure, foundation plantings, slopes and berms, coastal and urban sites, large containers, and bonsai training.

Plant Details

  • Botanical Name: Pinus mugo 'Pumilio'
  • Common Name: Dwarf Mugo Pine (Pumilio)
  • Size & Growth: 2–3 ft tall x 4–6 ft wide in 10 years; ultimately 3–5 ft tall x 6–10+ ft wide; slow, compact spreader.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA 2–7
  • Foliage Type: Evergreen conifer; short, stiff, deep-green needles (2 per fascicle) held densely on branching stems.
  • Bloom Time: Inconspicuous; pollen cones in spring. Seed cones mature in 2–3 years.
  • Growth Rate: Slow (about 1–3 in/yr with good conditions)
  • Light Requirements: Full sun; tolerates light shade but stays densest in sun.
  • Attracts Pollinators: No (wind-pollinated; provides shelter for wildlife)
  • Indoor Friendly: No — outdoor landscape or patio containers only.
  • Container Friendly: Yes — excellent long-term in large, well-drained containers.
  • Deer Resistant: Yes — seldom seriously damaged.
  • Pet Warning: Non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of needles/cones may cause mild GI upset.
  • Fragrant: Light resinous pine scent when warmed or crushed.
  • Cut Flower: Not typical; short sprays useful for winter arrangements and wreaths.
  • Grows Well With: Heathers (Calluna/Erica), Juniperus, Sedum, Thymus, Festuca, dwarf spruces, and other sun-loving, well-drained companions.

Care Tips

  • Planting Instructions: Plant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× the root ball width, set the root flare level with or slightly above grade, backfill with native soil, water to settle, and mulch 2–3 in, keeping mulch off the trunk.
  • Soil Moisture: Keep evenly moist the first season; once established, water deeply but infrequently. Avoid soggy or standing water conditions.
  • Soil Type: Well-drained sandy or gravelly loam; tolerates poor soils. pH slightly acidic to neutral (≈5.5–7.0).
  • Humidity: Very tolerant of low humidity, wind, road salt, and coastal exposure with good drainage.
  • Pruning Instructions: Minimal. In late spring, pinch back new “candles” by 1/2–2/3 to control size; avoid cutting into old wood without buds. Remove dead or damaged wood anytime.
  • Winter Care: Hardy to very cold climates. Water deeply before the ground freezes; mulch roots. In exposed sites, a temporary windbreak the first 1–2 winters helps prevent scorch.
  • Planting Depth: Keep the trunk flare visible; do not bury. In heavy clay, plant 1–2 in high to improve drainage.
  • Fertilization: Generally unnecessary. If desired, apply a light, slow-release, acid-forming conifer fertilizer in early spring; avoid high nitrogen and late-season feeding.
  • Special Care: Ensure sharp drainage (especially in containers). Repot container plants every 3–5 years. Monitor for pine needle scale and sawfly larvae; treat promptly if observed.
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