Dwarf Mountain Pine, Mugo pine, Mountain Pine

Pinus mugo

Physical Characteristics

Pinus mugo is an evergreen Tree growing to 4.5 m (14ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in leaf all year, in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, from the Alps to S. E. Europe..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment A vanillin flavouring is obtained as a by-product of other resins that are released from the pulpwood[200].

Medicinal Uses

Antiasthmatic Balsamic Cardiotonic Expectorant The turpentine obtained from the resin of all pine trees is antiseptic, diuretic, rubefacient and vermifuge[4]. It is a valuable remedy used internally in the treatment of kidney and bladder complaints and is used both internally and as a rub and steam bath in the treatment of rheumatic affections[4]. It is also very beneficial to the respiratory system and so is useful in treating diseases of the mucous membranes and respiratory complaints such as coughs, colds, influenza and TB[4]. Externally it is a very beneficial treatment for a variety of skin complaints, wounds, sores, burns, boils etc and is used in the form of liniment plasters, poultices, herbal steam baths and inhalers[4]. The apical branches are antiasthmatic, balsamic, cardiotonic and expectorant[7, 61]. When distilled, the leaves and branches yield an essential oil that is commonly used in pharmaceutical balsamic preparations because of its antiseptic and expectorant qualities[7]. It is used internally and externally in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, chronic bronchitis, catarrh and asthma[238]. It is used externally to treat rheumatism and muscular stiffness[238].

Known Hazards

The wood, sawdust and resins from various species of pine can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[222].