Rickel Scotch Pine

Rickel Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris 'Rickel')

Rickel Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris 'Rickel') is a compact, slow-growing cultivar with dense branching and short, blue-green needles that give it a clean, formal appearance. Its tidy globe shape and refined texture make it a strong choice for small gardens, foundation plantings, or dwarf conifer groupings where structure and year-round interest are key.

Distinctive Features

'Rickel' is a true dwarf, forming a tight, rounded mound that reaches 2 to 3 feet tall and slightly wider with age. The short, twisted needles hold a striking blue-green hue throughout the year. Its naturally symmetrical habit rarely requires shaping, and the slow growth makes it an excellent choice for controlled landscapes or collector gardens.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy soils
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Low to moderate
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Rock gardens or alpine beds
• Small-space foundation plantings
• Dwarf conifer collections and trough gardens
• Accent in low-maintenance borders
• Focal point in miniature or structured designs

Low Maintenance Care

• Minimal pruning needed to maintain shape
• Water during prolonged droughts
• Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture
• Adapts well to urban and dry sites
• Monitor for pests such as pine sawfly if needed

Why Choose Rickel Scotch Pine

• Compact, low-maintenance dwarf pine
• Naturally round shape with rich blue-green needles
• Ideal for formal or small-scale designs
• Highly cold hardy and adaptable
• Provides a clean, compact evergreen focal point for refined gardens

Rickel Scotch Pine combines form, color, and hardiness into a tidy package, offering a bold evergreen focal point for rock gardens, borders, or collector displays.