Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Pinus mugo 'Carstens'
Carsten's Wintergold Mugo Pine
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Non-flowering; produces small brown cones
- Foliage color
- Bright green in spring and summer, turning golden yellow in winter
- Bloom time
- Not applicable
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; occasional pruning for shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 2 to 7
- Wildlife
- Provides shelter for birds and small animals; cones may attract squirrels and other wildlife
About this plant
Pinus mugo 'Carstens' is a dwarf evergreen conifer known for its dense, rounded growth habit and vibrant seasonal foliage changes. The short, needle-like leaves are a rich green during the growing season, transitioning to a brilliant golden-yellow hue in the colder months, providing year-round visual interest. Small, inconspicuous cones may appear occasionally, further enhancing its ornamental appeal.
This cultivar originates from the mountainous regions of Europe, where the mugo pine naturally thrives. Selected for its compact size and striking winter coloration, 'Carstens' is well-suited for rock gardens, borders, or container planting, offering a touch of seasonal brightness and texture to any garden design.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Rock Gardens · Containers · Bird Gardens
Companion plants
Phlox · Smoke bush · Red valerian · Blue oat grass · Stonecrop · Daisy bush
Design tip
Winter is when ‘Carstens’ earns its strongest visual role, shifting from green to brilliant golden yellow as much of the garden becomes more subdued. Its dense, rounded form concentrates that color into a bold evergreen accent that remains visually substantial through the colder months.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
