Pinus mugo Allgäu - Dwarf Mountain Pine

The Pinus mugo or Mountain Pine 'Allgäu' forms a compact, rounded, flattened and stocky bush. Its small branches resemble brushes and are densely covered with short, dark green needles. Not demanding, it is incredibly hardy, does not need to be pruned, and thrives in well-drained but moist soil and a sunny exposure. Its excessively reduced development and very slow growth allow it to fit anywhere. Whether in planted in a small garden, rockery or a pot, it suits everywhere except hot and dry climates. Its round habit contrasts with other forms in the garden or terrace.

The Pinus mugo, also known as mountain pine, is an evergreen conifer of the pine family, native to the European mountains. It is found in the subalpine zone, avoiding the summer heat, from the Spanish sierras through the high Alpine and Pyrenean mountains to the Balkans. It only descends to an altitude of 200 m (656ft)  in Central Europe. In nature, it slowly reaches 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet) in all directions, adopting a wind-swept silhouette that reflects its habitat. It is a very hardy species, well adapted to the mountain climate. The 'Allgäu' variety distinguishes itself from the wild species by its small size and rounded habit. Its growth is slow. At maturity, it measures about 80 cm (32in) in height with a spread of 1 m (3ft). Its branches are covered with dark green, short and fine needles, 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) long, grouped in pairs and arranged in brushes. The young shoots emerge in spring from light brown and resinous buds. The bark is brown-grey on its trunk, while it shows a green and shiny colour, then black, on the branches.

The Dwarf Mountain Pine 'Allgäu' is ideal in a small garden, as a standalone plant, in a bed or rockery. It can also be used in a pot on the patio or balcony. It is ideal for a Japanese garden and is stunning with large stones, the geometric lines of swimming pools, and short walls. It can be paired with other conifers with coloured foliage and different forms to create double contrasts like the dwarf conifers with a creeping habit such as Juniperus horizontalis Blue Chip, round like Picea abies Little Gem or columnar like the Juniperus communis Sentinel. It can also be combined with small grasses, which complement it well, such as fescues. The architectural qualities of conifers naturally emerge in the design of a contemporary garden. These plants provide lasting structure to a bed, mark pathways, and border the terrace. It's all about playing with volumes and colours.