Siberian dwarf pine (Pinus pumila (Pall.) Regel, Pinaceae) - history of study, the current state in the botanical gardens of Saint Petersburg and the perspectives of its use in greening in the north-west of Russia

The Siberian Dwarf Pine (Pinus pumila (Pall.) Regel) has been cultivated outdoors in botanical gardens of Saint Petersburg (Russia) since 1833. It is in fact nearly unknown outside of arboricultural centres. The investigation of cultivated plants has confirmed its good condition, abundant fruiting of best specimen and high winter hardiness. Here it can reach the sizes of a large shrub or a small tree, up to 4,68 m high and 12 cm in trunk diameter under the age 48 years old. It endures the modern climate of Saint-Petersburg well and produces vital seeds. Based on results of a long-term monitoring, the Siberian Dwarf Pine may be recommended for wide cultivation in city planting and as a garden culture.