Larch

Tamarack

Larix laricina

A unique native conifer that loses its needles each autumn. In spring, soft bright green needles emerge in delicate clusters along the branches, giving the tree a light feathery appearance.

Small reddish cones develop on the branches and mature through the growing season. In fall, the needles turn a brilliant golden yellow before dropping for the winter, creating one of the most striking seasonal displays among native trees.

A Deciduous Conifer of the North

Tamarack is one of the few conifer species that sheds its needles each year. Its narrow upright form and soft foliage create a distinctive texture in wetland forests and northern landscapes.

The tree provides nesting sites for birds and important habitat for wildlife while supporting a variety of native insects.

A Tree of Bogs and Northern Wetlands

Tamarack grows naturally in bogs, fens, swamps, and wet forests. It thrives in full sun and prefers acidic, moist to wet soils where few other trees can grow successfully.

Its roots help stabilize peat soils while its canopy contributes to the structure and diversity of wetland ecosystems.

Growing Information

Height: 40–70 ft

Spread: 15–25 ft

Light: Full sun

Soil: Moist to wet, acidic soils

Hardiness: Zone 2–6

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best planted in wetland restorations, bog gardens, large naturalized landscapes, and conservation plantings.

Ecological Importance

Tamarack:

Provides habitat and nesting sites for birds

Supports many native insects and wildlife species

Stabilizes wetland soils

Contributes to biodiversity in bog and fen ecosystems

Associated Bog & Wetland Species

 

Associated Herbaceous Wetland Species

• Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor)
• Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
• Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)
• Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)
• Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
• Bog Aster (Symphyotrichum boreale)
• Marsh Skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata)
• Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
• Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica)
• Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata)

Planting these species together helps recreate resilient wetland ecosystems that support birds, pollinators, and diverse wildlife.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱

1 Gallon Pots