Plant Library

Description:

One of the more picturesque trees for the discerning collector, this close relative of the larch has similar characteristics - soft deciduous needles that turn gold in fall - but on an artistically wide-spreading and open structure; give it lots of room

Ornamental Features

Golden Larch is primarily grown for its highly ornamental fruit. The deep purple fruits are held in abundance in spectacular cones from mid to late summer. It has grayish green deciduous foliage which emerges light green in spring. The needle-like leaves turn an outstanding gold in the fall. The furrowed dark gray bark and gold branches add an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Golden Larch is an open deciduous tree with a strong central leader and a stunning habit of growth which features almost oriental horizontally-tiered branches. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which can make it a great accent feature on this basis alone.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Golden Larch is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade

Planting & Growing

Golden Larch will grow to be about 50 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. It has a high canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 70 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This species is not originally from North America.