Plant Encyclopedia

Other Names:  Mugho Pine, Swiss Mountain Pine

Description:

One of the very smallest of the dwarf pines, this variety develops its extremely dense and compact mounded shape very slowly over many years, also has very short needles; a superb choice for miniature effect in rock or alpine gardens

Ornamental Features

Valley Cushion Mugo Pine is a dwarf conifer which is primarily valued in the garden for its ornamental globe-shaped form. It has emerald green evergreen foliage. The needles remain emerald green throughout the winter.

Landscape Attributes

Valley Cushion Mugo Pine is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Valley Cushion Mugo Pine is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening
• Rock/Alpine Gardens
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Valley Cushion Mugo Pine will grow to be about 24 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.

This shrub should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.