Species dahurian larch
Golden-yellow foliage, pyramidal-shaped tree with upright brown trunk

dahurian larch

Larix gmelinii

The Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii) is a deciduous conifer tree native to Eastern Asia. It grows to an average height of 50 to 65 feet, with a trunk diameter of 2 to 3 feet. Its needles are light to medium green in colour and are arranged in dense clusters of 20 to 40 needles. The bark is scaly, reddish-brown and deeply furrowed. It prefers well drained soils, tolerating colder temperatures and dry conditions better than most other conifers. It’s an excellent choice for parkland and street landscaping as it provides year-round interest with its fragrant spring flowers, shifting shades of light green to vivid yellow autumn leaves.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 5

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii) requires regular watering in order to stay healthy. Water your larch deeply every 7 to 10 days, but avoid overwatering. During the active growth season, increase watering frequency if there are long dry spells. Soak the soil deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the autumn and winter when the plant is dormant, do not water as heavily or as often. Give the larch enough water to keep it hydrated during the winter months, but be sure not to over-water.

sunlight

Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii) needs direct sunlight for at least 6- 8 hours each day to thrive. This species prefers moderate levels of sunlight, and can suffer from sunburn in areas with high levels of UV radiation. Care should be taken when positioning the plant in a sunny spot, as the needles of the larch are sensitive to heat and can be damaged if exposed to prolonged direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day (11am - 4pm). For best results, a location that affords full sun in the early morning and early evening and some afternoon shade is ideal.

pruning

For Dahurian Larch, it is best to prune during late winter or early spring, when the plant is still dormant. Pruning should always be set to remove weak or dead branches, promote better air and light circulation, and to control the size and shape of the plant. It is a moderate grower and should only need pruning once every few years to shape the plant and remove dead or diseased branches. Be sure to only remove weak or dead branches and avoid aggressive pruning that can destroy the plant’s natural form. It is also important to use sharp, clean pruners or saws, as any damage done to the plant’s stem or trunk can affect its health.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Larix gmelinii typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map