Japanese Larch
Larix kaempferi
Japanese Larch is a fast-growing deciduous conifer whose soft needles turn brilliant gold before dropping in autumn. Native to Japan, it is a popular timber tree and a favorite for bonsai.
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Difficulty
- Moderate
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Overview
Japanese Larch (Larix kaempferi) is a deciduous conifer native to the mountains of central Japan. Unlike most conifers, it sheds its needles each autumn after a spectacular golden display, then leafs out fresh blue-green in spring.
Fast-growing and adaptable, it is widely planted for timber, in forestry, and as an ornamental, and is one of the most popular species for bonsai cultivation.
How to identify it
- Needles: Soft, 2-3.5 cm, blue-green, borne in rosette-like clusters of 30-40 on short spurs along the shoots; deciduous, turning golden-yellow in autumn
- Cones: Small (2-3.5 cm) upright cones with distinctive outward-rolled (reflexed) scale tips, like little rosettes
- Habit: Conical, fast-growing, reaching 20-30 m; reddish young shoots
- Bark: Scaly, reddish-brown
- The reflexed cone scales and reddish twigs distinguish it from European larch
Care & growing
Light: Full sun; it is intolerant of shade.
Water: Likes moist but well-drained soil; reasonably tolerant once established.
Soil: Adaptable; prefers deep, fertile, slightly acidic ground and tolerates poorer sites.
Temperature: Hardy to USDA zone 4; needs a cold winter dormancy.
Feeding: Not usually required in the ground.
Propagation: From seed; readily used for bonsai from young nursery stock.
Habitat & origin
Native to the mountains of central Honshu, Japan, where it grows on volcanic slopes and at high elevations. It tolerates poor, exposed conditions and acts as a pioneer on disturbed ground.
It has been planted extensively in forestry across Japan, Europe (especially the UK), and elsewhere, and the hybrid with European larch (Larix x marschlinsii) is widely grown for disease resistance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Japanese Larch evergreen?
No. It is a deciduous conifer that turns golden and drops all its needles in autumn, regrowing them in spring.
Why is it popular for bonsai?
Its soft needles, fine twigging, seasonal color change, and tolerance of pruning and wiring make it an excellent and forgiving bonsai subject.
How fast does it grow?
Very fast for a conifer, which is why it is favored in forestry and reforestation.
How is it different from European Larch?
Japanese larch has reddish twigs, bluer needles, and cone scales that roll outward, whereas European larch cone scales stay straight.
Japanese Larch guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Japanese Larch.
