Height

5-10cm 40-60cm

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Vigorous deciduous conifer with soft light-green needles that turn striking yellow-orange in autumn. Rapid early growth, good pioneer/nurse species, and produces versatile, durable timber. Better adapted to many UK sites than European larch, with attractive seasonal interest and ease of establishment on suitable ground.

Key growing conditions

• Full sun (strongly light-demanding)
• Deep, well-drained mineral soils of poor to moderate fertility; tolerates better-drained peats; wide pH range
• Prefers higher rainfall (>1,000 mm) for best growth
• Cold hardy and tolerates moderate exposure, but vulnerable to spring and autumn frosts 
• Avoid waterlogged or very dry sites

When to plant

• Ideally early spring (before flushing starts) or late autumn
• Complete planting before buds break, as it flushes early

How to plant

• Dig a hole large enough for the roots to spread freely
• Plant so the root collar is at soil level; firm gently
• Space at approximately 2 × 2 m (2,500 plants/ha) for timber production
• Give much more room for specimen trees (mature height often 25–30 m+)
• Ensure good weed control, as it is very shade-intolerant when young

Aftercare

• Keep free of competing vegetation during establishment
• Water in dry spells if needed in the first year or two
• Tends to self-prune in dense stands; light pruning only if required for form
• Thin early and heavily in commercial plantings to allow space for crown development

Suitable for forestry, mixed woodland, shelterbelts or large gardens seeking autumn colour.