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Pseudolarix amabilis
Golden Larch
| A single species of singular beauty, this deciduous conifer puts on an unexpected display of autumn color. Tufts of flat needles raying out like little starbursts stay fresh green until fall, then blaze with gold and orange. They drop in as little as 10 days, but make a glorious impression while they last. New needles do not emerge until spring. Handsome blue-green cones appear in summer, usually near the treetop, and turn light golden-brown in fall. Closely related, but not a true Larch -- Pseudolarix means 'false Larch'. Grows slowly to form a broad conical shape. Most top out at 40 to 70 feet tall, but can reach over 100 feet. Native to mountains of eastern China, it prefers a climate of extremes, growing tallest at higher elevations and where challenged by long hot summers and fairly cold winters. In cool temperature regions, a rare heat wave can scorch the needles, and it may not survive temperatures around 20º F. Show it off on a spacious lawn, or tuck one of the rare dwarves into a woodsy border or Japanese garden. The diminutive varieties include Annesleyana, with dense needle growth and drooping branch tips, and compact, conical Dawsonii. The 3-foot Nana was developed specifically for bonsai. Best in a spot sheltered from drying winds, with full sun, plentiful rainfall and deep, rich, moist, acid or neutral soil. Tolerates heavy clay soil and urban pollution. Plant 2 or more together to get fertile seeds. For best germination, keep seed moist at 40º F for 2 months before sowing. No serious disease or pest problems. |
This rare and unusual deciduous conifer is graceful and airy with its open branches and symmetrical pyramidal form. Branching habit and cones provide winter interest. Striking color in fall. The large but slow growing tree often puts on only 6 inches a year. Protect from strong winds. Very pest resistant.
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Attributes - Pseudolarix amabilis
Plant Type: Tree
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 40 ft. to 70 ft.
Width: 60 ft.
Sunlight: Full Sun
Climate: Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Notes: Thrives in Acid Soil. Low Maintenance.
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