Plant, Tree & Shrub Library

Other Names:  Common Larch

Description:

An unusual variety with robust twigs that rise up and out, hence the varied spreading characteristic; usually grafted on a standard to a certain height; best used as a solitary or accent in a garden composition, will definitely draw the eye to it

Ornamental Features

Varied Directions Larch is primarily valued in the landscape or garden for its ornamental upright and spreading habit of growth. It has rich green evergreen foliage which emerges light green in spring. The needles turn an outstanding gold in the fall, which persists throughout the winter. The twisted gray bark and gold branches are extremely showy and add significant winter interest.

Landscape Attributes

Varied Directions Larch is an open evergreen shrub with a strong central leader and an upright spreading habit of growth. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which can make it a great accent feature on this basis alone.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Varied Directions Larch is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Varied Directions Larch will grow to be about 8 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more.

This shrub should only be grown in full sunlight. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.