Larix laricina is a unique deciduous conifer known for its soft feathery needles that turn golden yellow in autumn before dropping. Also called Tamarack, this cold hardy native thrives in wet acidic soils and plays a key role in stabilizing bog and swamp environments. Its upright pyramidal form and seasonal changes make it a standout in naturalistic plantings and rain gardens.
Height & Spread: 40 - 80 ft x 15 - 30 ft
Bloom Time: Insignificant; small cones form in spring
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Moist to wet acidic soil, tolerates seasonal flooding
Watering Needs: High moisture needs; prefers consistent wet conditions
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Native Status
Larix laricina is native to northern North America from Alaska to Newfoundland and south into the Great Lakes and Appalachians. It is commonly found in peatlands, bogs, and cold wet forests.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Cones and seeds are eaten by Pine Siskins, Redpolls, and crossbills. Dense branches offer nesting cover for warblers and sparrows.
Moths
- Host to caterpillars of the Larch Casebearer and the Eastern Larch Looper.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports overwintering of predatory beetles and lacewings in bark crevices and under fallen needles.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 15 - 30 ft apart for mature canopy spread in naturalistic or restoration plantings.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for wet meadows, streambanks, and bog gardens; works well in habitat restoration and stormwater management designs.
Companion Plants
- Chamaedaphne calyculata (Leatherleaf) - Tough low shrub with leathery leaves that thrives in bogs and acidic peat soils.
- Andromeda polifolia (Bog Rosemary) - Compact evergreen with silvery foliage and bell shaped flowers that suit acidic peat conditions.
- Osmunda cinnamomea (Cinnamon Fern) - Tall bold fronds contrast with the feathery larch foliage and thrive in similarly wet conditions.
- Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) - Low spreading native groundcover with tart red fruit and glossy foliage for acidic wet areas.
- Sphagnum spp. (Peat Moss) - Critical bog moss that creates and maintains the acidic waterlogged habitat larches favor.