Larix laricina Tamarack (Pinaceae) Deciduous tree

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Larix laricina
Tamarack
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Larix laricina plant species is found in Northern N. America - Alaska to Labrador, south to West Virginia. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Tamarack. Some home gardeners know the variety as L. americana.

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Latin Name:  Larix laricina
Common Name:  Tamarack
Family:  Pinaceae
Author:  (Du Roi.)Koch.

Known Hazards:  Sawdust from the wood has ben known to cause dermatitis in some people[222].

Mature Height:  18   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Often forming pure forests in the south of its range in swamps and wet soils[43, 82, 222], sometimes also on dry plateaus or slopes in the north of its range[82, 226].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers an open airy position in a light or gravelly well-drained soil[200]. Plants are intolerant of shade[226]. Tolerates acid and infertile soils and waterlogged soils[200]. Succeeds on rocky hill or mountain sides and slopes[200]. A north or east aspect is more suitable than west or south[1]. This species is very cold-hardy when fully dormant, but the trees can be excited into premature growth in Britain by mild spells during the winter and they are then very subject to damage by late frosts and cold winds[1]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus[200]. Planted for forestry in Europe[50], they are not suitable for this purpose in Britain[1]. Growth is normally slow in this country with average height increases of less than 30cm per year[185]. The trees are generally not long-lived[185]. Planting them in boggy soil may improve growth rates[185]. Open ground plants, 1 year x 1 year are the best for planting out, do not use container grown plants with spiraled roots[200]. Plants transplant well, even when coming into growth in the spring[200]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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