Western Larch
Larix occidentalis
A deciduous conifer, western larch drops its soft needles every autumn after they turn brilliant gold — a rare trait among conifers. Its thick, fire-resistant bark and high, branch-free trunk let mature trees shrug off low-intensity fires that kill competing conifers.
Where found
Cool, moist mountain valleys and lower slopes of northeastern Oregon, north-central Washington, and the northern Rockies.
Fun facts
- One of the few conifers to lose its needles each fall, and the largest of all larch species.
- Some documented trees have lived over 900 years.
- Considered the most fire-resistant tree in its range, thanks to thick basal bark.
Specs
| Height | 30–50 m (up to 60+ m) |
|---|---|
| Spread | 6–10 m |
| Lifespan | up to 900+ yrs |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Native Range | Southeastern British Columbia to central Oregon, east to Montana and Idaho |
