Alaskan Larch
Larix laricina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Larix laricina (Tamarack) is a deciduous conifer native to northern and northeastern United States. This wetland tree thrives in bogs and swamps, turning golden-yellow before dropping its needles in fall.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Alaskan Larch as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Alaskan Larch
Grow Alaskan Larch in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 360 to 720 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Larix laricina naturally grow?
- Larix laricina is native to northern and northeastern United States, including states from Maine to Minnesota and south to West Virginia. It typically grows in wetlands, bogs, and swampy areas.
- Is Tamarack really a deciduous conifer?
- Yes, Larix laricina is one of the few conifers that drops its needles annually. The needles turn bright golden-yellow in fall before dropping, making it unique among most evergreen conifers.
- What growing conditions does Larix laricina prefer?
- Tamarack thrives in full sun to partial sun with consistently moist to wet soils. It is well-adapted to boggy, swampy conditions and can tolerate seasonal flooding.
- Is Alaskan Larch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Alaskan Larch as toxic to livestock.
- Is Alaskan Larch HOA-friendly?
- Alaskan Larch takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Alaskan Larch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz