Pinus cembra 'NANA' dwarf arolla pine

Dwarf arolla pine called Nana originated in Germany around 1980, probably as a mutation of the species. It is a slow growing pine with very long, soft, rich green needles with a silvery grey stripe. Young shoots are light green and before the needles separate from the twig (so-called candle phase) you can trim or remove them completely if you wish to keep the plant smaller or to shape it.

Arolla pine contains a very fragrant essence, not only in the wood but also in the needles which release their perfume already when gently squeezed. The habit is narrowly pyramidal, getting slightly chubbier with age.

Arolla pine is one of the hardiest pines tolerating hard frost, windy areas and hot sun. One thing it hates though is wet ground. Grow it in full sun, in poor to semi-fertile, well-drained soil. No fertilizing necessary. Fully hardy to -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 05-02-2014