Tamarack is a beautiful native conifer that loses its needles in fall. It is commonly found in wet, swampy or boggy locations, but can grow in other locations as long as soil moisture is consistent.
This tree looks good through many seasons. In spring, small rosy pink cones can be seen as new needles begin to emerge. In summer, the soft green needles give the tree a fine texture. In autumn, the needles turn yellow before they fall.
Since this tree is on the threatened list, it should never be collected from the wild. Purchase only from reputable nurseries that sell plants propagated from a nonwild source.
This native tree has adapted to some of the coldest regions in North America. Planting American larch tamarack seedlings is especially useful in landscapes with poor drainage, where few other conifers will thrive.
Larix laricina saplings grow to develop a pyramidal form with fine-textured foliage and soft, flexible needles. While naturally suited to boggy areas, the tree also performs well in upland sites when adequate moisture is available. They offer distinct visual texture year-round, from their delicate summer foliage to their open winter silhouette.