Western Larch vs European Larch - TreeTime.ca

Western Larch vs European Larch

Larix occidentalis

Larix decidua

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Western Larch
European Larch

Western Larch is a pioneer species that can survive in nutrient poor soil and is found in the valleys and on the lower slopes of mountains in mixed forests. In the warm months, this larch is covered in clusters of soft green needles that turn golden yellow before dropping in the fall. Its dense, sturdy wood is excellent for lumber, making this Larch valuable in Western North America.

The European Larch is a large deciduous conifer that, like most larches, drops its needles before winter. Known for the soft green foliage that turns a stunning golden yellow in the fall. While young, it has a pyramidal shape with horizontal branching and drooping branches, but becomes more irregular as it matures.

The European Larch is an important timber tree in Europe.

Western Larch Quick Facts

European Larch Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 55 m (180 ft)
Height: 23 m (75 ft)
Spread: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Fall colour: golden yellow
Fall colour: yellow, drops needles
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: none




Other Names: hackmatack, western tamarack