Larix decidua 'Varied Directions' (Varied Directions European Larch)


Botanical Information

FamilyPinaceae
GenusLarix
Speciesdecidua
Cultivar'Varied Directions'
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone3
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height3 m
Spread3.5 m
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA unique plant developed by Dr. Sid Waxman of the University of Connecticut, this cultivar forms a weeping, spreading plant with main branches that radiate out in an irregular pattern (hence the name). The ultimate form of this plant seems to depend
ID CharacteristicRobust twigs propel the branches up and out from this vigorous, spreading, deciduous plant. Branches eventually arch down and cover the ground. Fresh green in spring, golden in autumn. Thicker twigs, branches golden-tan, and the spreading habit distinguish this plant from the weeping European larch.
LandscapeUsed as a screen, specimen, and park tree.
PropagationPropagated from softwood cuttings, semi-hardwood cuttings, and by grafting.
CultivationEasily transplanted when dormant. Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil is best, but can tolerate poorily-drained soils. Requires full sun; tolerant of air polution and wind.
Notable SpecimensThe Devonian Botanic Garden, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionGreyish-brown outer bark. Loose elongated plates reveal a reddish inner bark. Young stems are yellowish and furrowed.
Leaf DescriptionSoft, flat needles, 25-30 mm long. Bright green in spring, turn yellow before dropping, and darkening with maturity. found in groups on spurs or in a spiral arrangement down long branches.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are monoecious; both male and female strobili cover tree in early spring. Female flowers are egg-shaped and about 0.5-2 cm long, in reds, pinks, yellows, or green. Male flowers are smaller and yellow.
Fruit DescriptionCones are ovoid, 2.5-4 cm long, and persistent. Purple cones dry to brown; young cones somewhat showy. Scales pubescent on backside, overlapped, but not reflexed.

Photographs