The Mountain Pine (Pinus mugo), the source of Wurzelkopf, is a high altitude European Pine found in the altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 2,200 meters. It is a low, shrubby 3-6 meter tall tree with symmetrical cones. Central Eastern Alps and Northern Limestone Alps offer the best climate for the Mountain Pine tree due to its cold winter and wet conditions.

The Wurzelkopf, meaning Root Head in English, are usually collected from the root branches of the Mountain Pines; however, normal arm branches of the trees can also be used.Collecting the woods from above 1,800 metres is the most tiring part of this unique handcraft, however it doesn’t discourage the artist’s inspiration. It is the beautiful nature and mountainous climate that gives the passion to the artist. As it is the beautiful nature and mountainous climate, that gives the inspiration to the artist, it is quite identifiable that the collecting activity of the woods from above 1,800 m is the most tiring part. 

Austrian Alps have hosted several civilizations since Bronze Age, where people lived, traded and survived wars throughout the centuries. In almost all parts of the 1,000 km wide Alpine mountain range, wood carving has been a traditional handcraft for centuries. Works of wood, a plentiful resource due to the mountainous climate, has remained a vibrant activity throughout the centuries. The tough mountain conditions and the cold winter climate usually isolated the Alpine inhabitants from the surrounding, thus a unique living style has emerged. The year-round green trees and high mountains have kept people pro active and creative.