Larix Kaempferi Japanese Larch

Larix Kaempferi or Japanese Larch
Larix kaempferi, commonly called the Japanese Larch, is a deciduous conifer (which in itself is unusual). The tree was introduced from its native habitat in Japan during the 1860s and has become a popular landscape specimen. It is a vigorous conifer and forms a large tree.

Japanese Larch has an extreme conical form. The needles are an attractive bluish-gray that turn to a yellowish-orange in autumn before falling from the tree. During the spring, the tree starts to produce its new needles which appear in whirls. Small flowers in shades of pink and yellow appear on the tree. Following flowering, oval cones appear that measure about 3 centimeters long. Even after the needles fall from the tree the cones often persist into the winter months. The tree’s new growth shoots appear in shades of red.

Height and Spread of the Larix kaempferi
The Japanese Larch tree reaches a height of 30 metres. It forms a tight conical shape. It measures about 2.5 metres wide.

How Hardy is the Larix kaempferi
The Japanese Larch is hardy to a UK plant hardiness zone H6.

How to Use the Larix kaempferi
Japanese Larch is an ideal focal point tree. It can be planted next to evergreen trees and shrubs to really showcase its unique autumn hues.

How to Care for the Larix kaempferi
The Japanese Larch grows best in partial to full sun. Choose a planting site that has neutral to slightly acidic soil. It prefers consistently moist soil and does not tolerate drought well. During the tree’s first year of planting in its new home, make sure that you keep very well-watered.

Larix Kaempferi is a lovely unique-needled conifer that will become a valued addition to your landscape. Plant it somewhere that you can truly appreciate its unique characteristics.