Overview
Larix decidua is a bushy conifers in the genus Larix, part of the Pinaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around Higher than 12 metres tall and 4-8 metres wide, reaching full size in around more than 50 years. Larix decidua grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include coastal, architectural and low maintenance. It is native to Belgium and France.
About
Larix decidua, the European larch, is a species of larch native to the mountains of central Europe, in the Alps and Carpathian Mountains, with small disjunct lowland populations in northern Poland. Its life span has been confirmed to be close to 1000 years, with ages of around 2000 years likely.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Larix decidua
About the genus
Larches are deciduous conifers in the genus Larix, of the family Pinaceae. Growing to as much as 60 m (195 ft) tall, they are native to the cooler regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They grow in lowland forests in the far north, and high in mountains further south.
Wikipedia contributors, "Larch", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Larch
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Larix
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Larix decidua size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers, Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- More than 50 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Architectural, Low Maintenance
- Native to
- Belgium, France
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Larix decidua
- Propagation
- Seed, Graft, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Adelgids
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Larix decidua?
Larix decidua prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Larix decidua need?
Larix decidua is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Larix decidua grow?
Larix decidua reaches a height of Higher than 12 metres and a spread of 4-8 metres. It takes around more than 50 years to reach full size.
Is Larix decidua hardy in the UK?
Larix decidua has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Larix decidua?
Seed, Graft, Semi-ripe cuttings.