Dwarf pine is a dominant component of the ecosystem in localities above the upper forest limit. The growth of dwarf pine plantings was studied in relation to altitude, dominant herb associations and age. Dwarf pine plantings have regular increments; the time of canopy closure is from 20 to 35 years in dependence on the site and the stand condition. The time of canopy closure is reduced by shrub growth variability and mortality. A sample shrub was analysed to determine growth and development: its weight was 51.5 kg, thick branches accounted for a dominant share in wood mass. Diameter increment was highly variable due to adverse climatic conditions and irregular growth. Historical data on wood consumption were confirmed by the calculation of its volume. The health status of dwarf pine has been very variable since 1981; dwarf pine productivity has been negatively influenced by air pollution. In general, dwarf pine health is satisfactory, but the health condition of its stands has been impaired in the long run.