Overview

Pinus mugo 'Mops' is a bushy conifers in the genus Pinus, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 20-50 years. Pinus mugo 'Mops' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, drought resistant and low maintenance. Suggested uses include rock garden, architectural and coastal.

About

Pinus mugo 'Mops' is a compact evergreen conifer that develops into a medium-sized, rounded shrub. It features slender, dark green needles that grow in pairs and reach lengths of up to 3cm. This plant is noted for its slow growth.

About the genus

The genus Pinus comprises both shrubs and sizable, evergreen trees. Certain species feature notable bark and, as they mature, tend to form an irregular silhouette. The foliage consists of elongated, needle-like leaves arranged in clusters of 2, 3, or 5. Their prominent cones can either drop off or persist on the tree for several years.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pinus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Pinus mugo 'Mops' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Conifers, Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Architectural, Coastal

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pinus mugo 'Mops'

Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil. Looks good in a large rock garden
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by grafting
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphid, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Pinus mugo 'Mops'?

Grow in any well-drained soil. Looks good in a large rock garden.

Where is the best place to plant Pinus mugo 'Mops'?

Pinus mugo 'Mops' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Pinus mugo 'Mops' need?

Pinus mugo 'Mops' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

How do I prune Pinus mugo 'Mops'?

No pruning required.

How big does Pinus mugo 'Mops' grow?

Pinus mugo 'Mops' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 20-50 years to reach full size.

Is Pinus mugo 'Mops' hardy in the UK?

Pinus mugo 'Mops' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Pinus mugo 'Mops'?

Propagate by grafting.