Larix decidua Varied Directions

Larix decidua 'Varied Directions', as its name suggests, is a European larch that develops branches in all directions. Its habit is generally weeping, with a prostrate crown grafted onto a classic larch trunk. It is a deciduous conifer with green needles that develop in spring and turn yellow in autumn before falling. It is a beautiful specimen with interesting architecture in winter. Native to mountainous regions, the European larch can withstand extreme cold. It thrives in light, slightly moist soil, without too much limestone, even poor, in full sun.

The European larch, Larix decidua, is a large tree that can reach a height of 30 m. This conifer belongs to the Pinaceae family, like Firs, Spruces, Cedars, and Pines. It is one of the few conifers, along with the Bald Cypress (Taxodium) and Dawn Redwood, whose deciduous foliage falls in autumn. It is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe, where it is found at altitudes between 1400 and 2400 m. It is a pioneer species capable of improving poor or degraded soils, with a high hardiness (down to -40°C). Highly valued for its wood, it adapts very well to lowland cultivation.
Larix decidua 'Varied Directions' is quite different from the original botanical species. This cultivar was selected by Dr. Sydney Waxman at the University of Connecticut. It is a variety with moderate development and slow growth. At the age of 20, the tree measures approximately 3 m in height with a spread of 3.50 m. Its crown is composed of robust branches that produce, or rather "propel," shoots upwards and outwards in various directions. The golden bronze branches eventually touch the ground, creating a unique configuration for each individual. This curious structure gives it a highly ornamental appearance in winter when the wood is bare. In spring, the shoots are adorned with tender, shiny green needle-like foliage, inserted in small tufts along the branches. The foliage darkens slightly throughout the growing season, then turns beautiful shades of yellow and bronze in autumn before falling. This extremely cold-resistant conifer is perfectly suited to mountainous regions.

Larix 'Varied Directions' will delight plant enthusiasts. Its original, yet romantically inclined habit, will not leave anyone indifferent. It should be prominently planted, as a stand-alone specimen, to allow it to express its full personality. This larch finds a place in a contemporary or Japanese-style garden. Its architectural silhouette, even in winter, truly catches the eye. It can be the focal point of a bed of ground cover perennials. Its habit will also be enhanced when overhanging, for example above a low wall. Plant it near an ornamental pond as well.