Overview
Larix gmelinii var. japonica is a conical, pendulous weeping, matforming conifers in the genus Larix, part of the Pinaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Larix gmelinii var. japonica grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, architectural, low maintenance, banks and slopes and ground cover.
About
Larix gmelinii var. japonica is a cultivar of Larix, a genus of deciduous coniferous trees known for their conical shape and seasonal colour changes. This cultivar features a pendulous weeping or matforming habit, with soft needle-like foliage that turns striking colours in autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained loam soils with acid to neutral pH, making it suitable for exposed sites. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is well suited to city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal settings, as well as architectural uses and ground cover on banks and slopes.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Larix
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- 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 gmelinii var. japonica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers
- Habit
- Conical, Pendulous weeping, Matforming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Architectural, Low Maintenance, Banks and slopes, Ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Larix gmelinii var. japonica
- Propagation
- Seed, Grafting, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to adelgids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Larix gmelinii var. japonica?
Larix gmelinii var. japonica prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Larix gmelinii var. japonica need?
Larix gmelinii var. japonica grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Larix gmelinii var. japonica hardy in the UK?
Larix gmelinii var. japonica 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 gmelinii var. japonica?
Seed, Grafting, Semi-ripe cuttings.
More in the Larix genus
- Larix decidua 'Globus'
- Larix gmelinii var. gmelinii

- Larix kaempferi 'Blue Ball'

- Larix kaempferi 'Diana'

- Larix kaempferi 'Elizabeth Rehder'

- Larix kaempferi 'Haverbeck'

- Larix kaempferi 'Varley'

- Larix laricina 'Arethusa Bog'
