Siberian Larch

General
Scientific Name: Larix sibirica 
Family: Pinaceae (Pine) 
Hardiness: Zone 2 
Leaves: Deciduous 
Plant Type: Tree 

Growth 
Rate: Medium 
Mature Height: >45’ 
Longevity: Long 
Power Line: No 

Ornamental 
Flowers: Inconspicuous 
Fruit: n/a 
Fall Color: Yellow

A large, pyramidal, deciduous conifer with spreading horizontal branches. Needles are densely clustered on short spurs. Needles turn attractive yellow and are shed each fall. Native to Russia and Siberia, the largest tree in North Dakota is 55 feet tall with a canopy spread of 18 feet.

Light: Full sun, intolerant of shade. 
Water: Prefers moist sites but is very drought tolerant. 
Soil: Intolerant of dry, heavy or shallow soils.

Siberian larch has a distinctive and refined pyramidal form with a strong central leader. The needles lend a fine and delicate texture to a landscape composition which can make it a great accent feature tree. Siberian larch is also tough enough to withstand exposed conditions and works well in shelterbelts. 

It will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, however typically requires very little pruning to maintain form as it looks best without pruning. This deciduous conifer is unique among the pine family as it loses its needles every year. 

In Russia, the Siberian larch is an important tree to the lumber industry.