Slowmound Mugo Pine (Pinus mugo 'Slowmound')
 
‘Slowmound’ is a tight, compact selection of mugo pine developed by Iseli Nursery, known for its dense branching, dark green needles, and naturally rounded form. It stays very small even with age, making it a popular cultivar for rock gardens, containers, and bonsai work.
 
As a Bonsai:
This cultivar is especially suited for bonsai due to its slow growth rate, short needles, and naturally compact structure. It responds well to pruning and candle pinching, and can be trained into formal or informal upright styles. The tight foliage makes refinement easier than with more vigorous pine varieties.
 
📢 This is a cold-hardy species—it requires a winter dormancy and should be kept outside year-round. In locations with extreme cold, we recommend placing it on the ground, mulching around the pot, and protecting it from wind.
 
Plant Features:
Hardiness Zone: 2-7 (cold-hardy and requires winter dormancy)
Growth Habit: Dense, compact mound; extremely slow-growing
Mature Size: ~1 ft tall and 2 ft wide over many years in the landscape; much smaller in bonsai form
Foliage: Short, dark green needles in pairs
Trunk & Bark: Bark becomes rough and textured with age
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil
Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture when young
Pests/Disease: Generally resilient; occasional issues with scale or fungal needle cast in poor conditions
Special Features: Very short needles, dense growth, ideal for small-scale bonsai, developed by Iseli Nursery