Larix kaempferi - Larch

The Larix kaempferi, also known as the Japanese larch, is a deciduous conifer of beautiful stature that should be reserved for large gardens and our cool and moist regions. With an elegant silhouette and a harmonious, airy, conical habit, it bears bluish-green needles from spring to summer and turns a yellowish-bronze to orange colour in autumn that catches everyone's attention. Very hardy, it appreciates a light, neutral to acidic, moist soil and a sunny exposure.

The Japanese larch, Larix kaempferi, also known as Larix leptolepis, is a large Japanese conifer with a conical habit that can reach a height of 30m (98ft) and a spread of 10m (33ft), and is characterized by its deciduous foliage, absent in winter. It is native to the mountains of the Hondo Island, where it grows at an altitude between 1,300 and 2,900m (4 and 9ft), but it adapts very well to plain cultivation in a rather cool oceanic climate. It belongs to the pinaceae family, like pines, firs, and spruces. It is visually very similar to the European deciduous larch, but grows faster.

The growth of this larch is quite slow during the first 3 years after its installation, and then it accelerates. Its long and strong, sparse branches emerge from the trunk at a slightly open angle, slightly pointing upwards. Its bark is thin and brownish-orange in colour. From spring to summer, the foliage is generally bluish-green, composed of flat needles measuring 1.5 to 4cm (1 to 2in), which are flexible and non-prickly. These needles are solitary on long shoots, but densely arranged in rosettes on short shoots. Like all other larches, this one takes on a magnificent colour in autumn, here a yellowish-brown with orange reflections. Flowering occurs in March-April. The tree bears separate male and female flowers, which are not very visible. Pollination is ensured by the wind. Fertilised female flowers transform into small globose cones, in the shape of a rosette, measuring 2 to 3cm (1in) in length.

The Japanese larch is a magnificent conifer that can be adopted in a park or a very large garden, in a well-exposed location. It has its place in a Japanese-style setting. Its cultivation requirements will be satisfied in regions that can offer it both non-calcareous and well-draining soil, as well as sufficient rainfall. It can also be a delightful bonsai. The graphic qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which favours shapes, silhouettes, and textures over the dance of foliage and flowering.

Tips: Water regularly during the first two years, and in drought in summer.