Larix decidua Compacta

Larix decidua 'Compacta' is one of the few dwarf forms of European larch and is characterised by a rounded habit. This conifer is often grafted onto a stem to highlight its globular crown. Its non-prickly, deciduous foliage appears in spring, turning a beautiful golden yellow in autumn before falling. This small tree can be used as a centrepiece in small gardens or patios. It can also be showcased in a large container on a terrace.

The European larch, Larix decidua, is a large conifer that can reach 30 metres in height, with deciduous foliage. It is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe, where it is found at altitudes between 1400 and 2400 metres. It is a pioneer species capable of improving poor or degraded soils, with great hardiness (down to -40°C). Highly valued for its wood, it adapts very well to lowland cultivation. It belongs to the family Pinaceae, like pines, firs, and spruces. It is a very close species to the Japanese Larix kaempferi.

Larix decidua 'Compacta' reaches about 1 metre in height and 80 cm in width at the age of 10. It is grafted onto a stem 1.20 to 2 metres high, which serves as its trunk. Eventually, it forms a small "ball" tree measuring between 2 and 3 metres in height with a roughly equivalent spread. In spring, the branches are adorned with soft needle-like, bright light green foliage, which then turns dark green before becoming golden yellow in autumn. The needles are grouped in tufts composed of 35 to 40 on short branches. Covering its trunk, smooth grey bark becomes brownish-red and cracks into scales with age.

The 'Compacta' European larch is an architectural, undemanding small conifer, easy to cultivate as long as the soil does not dry out too much and it is in a sunny location. Its silhouette perfectly complements the clean lines of contemporary or French gardens. It can also be easily grown in pots to decorate the terrace or balcony. In the garden, enhance it by planting summer heathers (Calluna) at its base, a few painted Japanese painted ferns (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum), or Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra).

Tips: Water regularly during the first two years, and in prolonged drought. While it can tolerate periodically dry soil in cool climates, this conifer will be disappointing in Mediterranean climates, which are too dry and hot in summer.