western larch

Larix occidentalis

The western larch is a tall tree that loves cool, wet places. In the fall, its needles turn a beautiful golden color before they fall off, making it a special sight in the forest.

Habitat: Mountain regions

Appearance

The western larch is a tall, slender conifer with unique soft, green needles that grow in clusters. Unlike most conifers, its needles turn brilliant golden-yellow in autumn before shedding, leaving the tree bare in winter.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassPinopsidaOrderPinalesFamilyPinaceaeGenusLarix

Photo: Walter Siegmund (talk)CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia CommonsView original ↗

western larch

Interesting facts

A special sugary sap, called 'larch manna,' can sometimes be found on its bark!

Its sturdy wood is resistant to decay, great for building bridges and outdoor structures!

Larch trees are the only conifers in North America that shed all their needles in autumn!

Western larch can live for over 800 years, standing tall through many seasons!

Special abilities

Western larch has incredibly thick, fire-resistant bark that helps it survive forest fires that damage other trees.

Western larch sheds all its needles in autumn, conserving water and nutrients during harsh, cold winter months.

Western larch develops deep taproots, anchoring it firmly on windy mountain slopes and rocky terrain.

Measurements & details

Height: 3000-7500 cm
Spread: 800-1500 cm
Bloom Season: Spring
Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

Eats

Mule Deer

Odocoileus hemionus

Deer browse on young larch needles and twigs.

Eats

Red Squirrel

Tamiasciurus hudsonicus

Red squirrels harvest seeds from western larch cones.

Eats

American Black Bear

Ursus americanus

Bears eat the nutrient-rich inner bark, especially in spring.

Shelter

Northern Flying Squirrel

Glaucomys sabrinus

Flying squirrels may nest in tree cavities or use larch for cover.

Traits

Deciduous

Deciduous plants periodically shed all their leaves, typically during autumn or dry seasons.

Broadleaf Tree

Broadleaf trees are angiosperms characterized by flat, wide leaves that are typically shed annually in temperate climates.

Cold Hardy

Cold hardy plants are able to withstand low temperatures and freezing conditions without significant damage.

Coniferous

Coniferous plants are typically evergreen, bearing needles or scales and reproductive cones.

Fall Color

Fall color refers to the seasonal change in foliage pigmentation, primarily in deciduous plants, displaying vibrant hues.

Timber

Timber refers to wood that has been prepared for use in building and carpentry.

Mountain

This habitat trait identifies species found in mountainous regions, characterized by high elevation, steep slopes, and varying climate zones.

Forest

Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Plants

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Stay on paths and don't climb trees without an adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify western larch?

Start with the whole plant, then compare leaf arrangement, leaf edges, stems and any flowers or fruit. Opposite leaves grow in pairs; alternate leaves come one at a time along the stem. These details tell you far more together than a single green leaf does. Plant Identifier: upload a photo and compare the visible details.

How tall is western larch?

3000-7500 cm

How wide does western larch spread?

800-1500 cm

When does western larch bloom?

Spring

Is western larch edible?

Yes

Is western larch toxic?

None

What is western larch's lifecycle?

Perennial