Alaskan Larch
Larix laricina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
360"–720" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CT, IL, IN, MA and 13 more states
Larix laricina is a tall, coniferous tree that unusually drops all its needles each fall, turning golden-yellow before shedding. It grows naturally in cold, wet areas and requires consistently moist soil conditions. This is a large specimen tree that needs plenty of space to reach its full potential.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alaskan Larch takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large mature size unsuitable for most residential lots
- Deciduous conifer appears dead in winter which confuses homeowners
- Requires consistently wet soil that may create drainage issues
Wildlife value
Provides nesting sites and shelter for birds, while seeds feed various wildlife species. The tree supports some native insects and moths that specialize on larch species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Alaskan Larch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.