European larch (Larix decidua)

European larch (Larix decidua) is a conifer that can grow higher than 15m tall and 3m – 8m wide. In this growing guide we’ll learn the cultivation details and how to plant European larch (Larix decidua).

This plant has several common names including: European larch, common larch or Venice turpentine.

This is a deciduous plant that takes more than 50 years to reach full maturity.

Plant profile

Common name: European larch, common larch, Venice turpentine
Scientific name: Larix decidua
Plant type: Conifers, Trees
Habit: Bushy
Height: Higher than 15m
Spread: 3m – 8m
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight: Full Sun
Soil: Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture: Well drained
Garden type: Architectural, Coastal
Planting type: Low Maintenance

Seasonal colors

How to plant European larch (Larix decidua) – Radio Tonreg from Vienna, Austria, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

How to plant

In this section we will learn how to plant European larch (Larix decidua), know its needs in terms of soil, watering and sun exposure.

Soil

European larch (Larix decidua) is not a demanding plant regarding the type of soil and can grow in clay, loam or sand.

• Clay soil is composed of more than 25 percent clay particles. These particles have a high moisture holding capacity and the soil is heavy to dig and can be waterlogged in winter (dry in summer).

• The loam soil is dark, rich in organic matter but balanced in minerals. It offers the best of all worlds, retaining enough water for the plants, but allowing excess moisture to drain away. This is the most desired type of garden soil, perfect for most plants.

• Sandy soil is light, porous and very easy to drain. It is a soil poor in organic matter and nutrients. It is composed of relatively large mineral particles that allow water to drain quickly.

As for pH, it is a plant that grows ideally in soils with pH acid or neutral.

Regarding drainage, Larix decidua likes to grow in well drained soil.

Sunlight

European larch (Larix decidua) should be grown in full sun places.

Cultivation profiles – Growing European larch (Larix decidua) – Dominicus Johannes Bergsma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons