Golden Larch
Arbor Walk #116, TreeKeeper ID #6505
One of the more unique members of the Pine family (Pinaceae), this tree has a circular spray of soft, thick needles and mature cones that resemble upside down succulents or artichokes. Originating from eastern China, this species thrives in the warm, wet environments of the American Midwest and Southeast.
This environmental preference is contrary to that of true larches, which prefer northern latitudes. Although Golden Larch leaves look similar to those of the true larches (Larix), the Golden Larch is more related to firs and true cedars. The Golden Larch is most commonly used as an ornamental tree, combining the brilliant fall colors of a deciduous tree with the cones and needles of a conifer.
| Common Name(s) | Golden Larch |
|---|---|
| Latin Name | Pseudolarix amabilis |
| Indigenous Name(s) | |
| Cultivar/Variety | |
| Commercial Name |
Global Distribution
GPS Coordinates
N/A
Percent Concrete
N/A
Distance to Buildings
| Year | Close Building #1 | Close Building #2 | Close Building #3 |
|---|---|---|---|
Distance to Other Species
| Year | Close Species #1 | Close Species # 2 | Close Species # 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
Standard Measurements
| Year | Height (m) | DBH (cm) | Crown Diameter N-S (m) | Crown Diameter E-W (m) | Average Crown Diameter (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2.2 | 4 | 1.4 | 1.55 | 1.495 |
Nests and Pests
| Year | Description |
|---|---|
| 2023 | N/A |
Leaf Identification
The leaves of the Golden Larch are 1″ to 3″ long and less than 1″ wide. The leaves are whorled around the twig. Being part of the pine family, these are considered soft needles. During the fall, the leaves turn a gold, yellow, or orange color.
Twig and Bud Identification
The twigs of the Golden Larch are reddish-brown to grayish-brown and textured. They are oriented slightly zig zag. The buds are ovoid with free scales.
Bark Identification
The Golden Larch’s bark is is thick and plated. The fissures tend to turn into square scales.
Cone Identification
The mature cone of the Golden Larch are 2″ to 3″ long and ovoid. They start off green to purple-green but mature to a reddish-brown. The small seeds are white, ovoid, and have yellowish wings. The staminate cones form terminal clusters of 10 to 25. They are usually a yellowish color.
