Larix occidentalis

Also Known As

Western Larch

Plant type

tree, conifer

size

H: 30'-60'
W: 5'-15'

planting zones

5a-9b

More Options

Larix occidentalis plant details

Larix occidentalis is a fast-growing deciduous conifer tree with green foliage. and purple fruit. Grows well with sun and regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Larix occidentalis

Plant type: conifer tree
Plant family: pinaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 5 FT - 15 FT - wide, 30 FT - 60 FT - tall
Uses: bonsai, container plant, fall color

GROWING CONDITIONS for Larix occidentalis

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

One of the trees which bring golden yellows to the Rockies in autumn, this large tree has soft green needles in summer and purplish cones. S/M

By: Forestfarm

The Western Larch (Larix occidentalis) is the only deciduous conifer native to western North America and displays bright golden fall color that is very rarely found in this group of trees. Unlike most other needled members of the Pine family, Larch have soft needles and flexible branches which makes this species a much better choice for planting in high traffic areas. The flexible branches also make this a good species for bonsai because they can be easily wired and shaped.

Western Larch is one of the most cold hardy native trees and is a tough, long-lived species that develops a strong root system. In the landscape this is a fast-growing tree that prefers moist soil and good sun exposure. Like other Larch species, the Western Larch drops its needles in the fall and the trees remain bare through the winter before flushing out new leaves in the spring. This feature makes Larch an excellent option as a summer shade tree but that won't block the sun exposure in the winter.

We provide two styles of these Larch, one for bonsai and one for landscape planting:

For trees intended for bonsai use select the 'dense' style, these have been top pruned to encourage a thick trunk and wide branches. For trees that will be grown on to full size select the 'seedling' style which are not top pruned.