Dwarf mountain pine Pinus mugo 'Ophir'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Ophir' is a variety of mountain pine sporting a dense, bushy growth habit that gives it a compact, rounded appearance. This plant is characterized by its eye-catching needle-like leaves, which display a rich green color that transitions to a distinctive golden-yellow hue during the colder months, providing a splash of color in winter gardens. The needles are typically arranged in pairs, and due to their evergreen nature, they provide year-round visual interest. In spring, the 'Ophir' mountain pine displays small, inconspicuous cones that start off green before maturing to a brown color as the seasons progress. These cones are usually held upright on the branches, adding textural variety to the plant's appearance. The bark of this plant is rough and adds to the overall rugged appearance of the shrub. It often exudes a pleasant resinous aroma, particularly in warm weather. Overall, the plant maintains a robust, resilient form, thriving in a range of conditions, and requiring minimal maintenance. Its overall appearance, with the changing foliage colors and persistent cones, makes 'Ophir' a favored choice for gardens looking to add a touch of structural interest, as well as for use in rockeries, mixed borders, or as a standalone specimen to showcase its seasonal color shifts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pinaceae.
Synonyms
Ophir Mugo Pine, Ophir Mountain Pine, Ophir Dwarf Pine.
Common names
Pinus mugo 'Ophir'.
ToxicityTo humans
The mountain pine (Pinus mugo 'Ophir') is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from consuming parts of this plant. However, eating non-edible plants is generally discouraged, and consuming large quantities may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other non-specific symptoms due to the plant's fibrous nature and potential for causing mechanical obstruction.
To pets
Mountain pine is also not specifically listed as toxic to pets. However, as with humans, it is not advisable for pets to consume plant material that is not intended as food. The ingestion of large amounts of pine needles can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets. If a pet consumes a significant quantity of this plant or shows any signs of illness, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
2-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Pinus mugo 'Ophir', commonly known as Dwarf Mountain Pine, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its distinctive golden-yellow foliage that provides year-round interest.
- Hardiness: It is a robust and hardy plant that can withstand harsh conditions, including cold temperatures, making it suitable for various landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Dwarf Mountain Pine requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and in rocky areas.
- Habitat Support: It offers habitat support by providing shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife.
- Drought Resistance: The plant is relatively drought-tolerant, which makes it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in arid regions.
- Compact Growth: Its compact and slow-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for small gardens, rock gardens, and containers.
- Winter Interest: With its evergreen foliage, Dwarf Mountain Pine contributes to winter landscapes when other plants have lost their leaves.
- Soil Adaptability: It can adapt to a range of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained soils.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Pinus mugo, commonly known as mountain pine, can be used for bonsai due to its gnarled and twisted growth pattern, giving enthusiasts an opportunity to craft living art.
- Culinary Garnish: Young shoots of the mountain pine can be used as a unique, pine-flavored garnish for elaborate culinary dishes, adding an unexpected visual and taste accent.
- Natural Dye: The bark and needles can be boiled to extract natural dyes for coloring wool and other natural fabrics in shades of brown and green.
- Photochemical Studies: Research can utilize the mountain pine's photochemicals for studying light absorption and reflection in plants for educational or scientific purposes.
- Festive Decoration: Branches of the mountain pine can be utilized as decoration during Christmas and other winter festivities, offering a distinct fragrance and robust greenery.
- Environmental Education: The mountain pine can serve as a model organism in educational settings to teach about alpine ecosystems and plant adaptations to harsh environments.
- Soil Erosion Control: This pine's extensive root system can be useful for soil stabilization and erosion control in mountainous or sloped terrains.
- Habitat Creation: The dense growth habit of mountain pine can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds, insects, and small mammals, supporting local biodiversity.
- Windbreaks and Screens: Mountain pine can be planted in rows to serve as natural windbreaks and visual screens, protecting more sensitive areas from strong winds and dust.
- Scented Sachets: Dried needles of the mountain pine can be packed in small sachets as a natural air freshener for closets or drawers, emitting a fresh pine scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Mugo Pine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Mugo Pine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: As a species of pine, the Pinus mugo 'Ophir', commonly known as 'Mugo Pine', symbolizes resilience due to its hardy nature and ability to withstand challenging conditions such as cold climates and poor soils.
- Longevity: Pines are often associated with long life because of their potential to live for many years, and the Mugo Pine, being a slow-growing plant, embodies this trait.
- Immortality and Eternal Life: Many cultures regard evergreens like Mugo Pine as symbols of immortality and eternal life since they retain their foliage throughout the year, even in winter.
- Steadfastness: The Mugo Pine's sturdy and robust form is often seen as representing steadfastness and reliability, as it remains unyielding in the face of environmental challenges.
- Peace: Historically, pine trees have been tokens of peace, and planting a pine such as the Mugo Pine might be seen as a gesture towards tranquility and calmness.
WaterMugo Pine, commonly known as 'Ophir' Dwarf Mountain Pine, should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Typically, watering once a week with about 1-2 gallons per plant is sufficient, but this can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. During the growing season, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering since the plant requires less moisture. Always check the soil a couple of inches deep; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
LightMugo Pine thrives best in full sunlight conditions, where it can receive direct light for at least 6 hours a day. The ideal spot for 'Ophir' Dwarf Mountain Pine would be an area that has clear exposure to the sun throughout the day without any shade covering the plant. Avoid shady areas, as insufficient light can lead to sparse growth and reduced hardiness.
Temperature'Ophir' Dwarf Mountain Pine is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures down to around -50°F and can handle heat up to around 90°F. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. It is well-suited to cooler climates and typically does not thrive in very hot temperatures for extended periods.
PruningPruning 'Ophir' Dwarf Mountain Pine is typically done to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It is not necessary to prune this plant annually, only as needed to maintain its desired size and shape. When pruning, make clean cuts and avoid removing more than necessary to preserve the plant’s natural form.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Mugo Pine 'Ophir' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. Ensure that the soil remains slightly acidic to neutral for optimal health.
RepottingMugo Pine 'Ophir' should be repotted every 2 to 4 years, preferably during spring before new growth begins. Young plants may require more frequent repotting, while mature specimens can be repotted less often as their growth rate slows down.
Humidity & MistingMugo Pine 'Ophir' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and thrives in outdoor conditions, where the humidity is naturally regulated. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in its preferred outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright spot, avoid heat sources, ensure air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
2-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Pinus mugo 'Ophir', commonly known as Mugo Pine or 'Ophir' Mountain Pine, begins with seed germination, occurring in a moist, well-drained substrate with adequate sunlight. The seedlings, which emerge in spring, are delicate and need protection from extreme elements and may take several years to establish. As the plant matures, it enters a phase of vegetative growth, producing characteristic dense, conical to broadly rounded shrubs with needle-like leaves and sturdy branches. The Mugo Pine reaches reproductive maturity after several years, developing male and female cones on the same plant; the male cones release pollen, which is wind-dispersed to fertilize the female cones. Once fertilized, the female cones mature over a period of about two years before releasing seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. The Mugo Pine is a long-lived species, often reaching 15 to 20 years of age in a cultivated setting, and can live much longer under ideal natural conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Dwarf Mountain Pine 'Ophir' is through semi-hardwood cuttings. Typically, this is carried out in late summer. You would take a cutting of about 4-6 inches (10-15 centimeters) from new growth that has begun to firm up, meaning it is not the softest new growth but not the fully woody older growth either. Remove the needles from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to stimulate root growth. Then, place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until roots have developed, which can take several weeks. During this period, the cuttings should be kept in a sheltered location with indirect sunlight. Covering the cuttings with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity levels, which is critical for root development.
