Larix lyallii aka Alpine Larch

Larix lyallii, the sub-alpine larch, belongs to the pine family. This deciduous conifer grows in western North America. Its range includes southern British Columbia and southwestern Alberta. It also reaches Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana. It lives in high mountain woods and near tree line. North-facing slopes with late snow cover form part of its habitat.

Trees reach 30–50 feet (9–15 metres), though one source lists 82 feet (25 metres). These figures describe species size, not a proven garden range. The trunk is often straight, with sparse, twisted branches. Near tree line, trees may take bent or uneven shapes. Young bark is pale gray-brown, thin, and scaly. Older bark turns reddish brown and forms small plates. It remains fairly thin as the tree ages. Fine hairs cover the pale yellow-brown twigs and small buds.

The narrow needles are light green to blue-green. They turn yellow in fall, then drop from the tree. New twigs carry single needles; older growth bears clusters on spur shoots. Each needle measures about an inch long. A single tree bears both male and female cones. Male cones range from yellow to yellow-green. Young female cones stand upright and glow red. The egg-shaped seed cones reach about two inches long. They change from reddish purple to dark brown. Their thin, woody scales have hairy tips. Pointed bracts extend beyond the scales.

Give this larch an open, airy site with good drainage. It prefers moist, light or gravelly soil. It tolerates poor and acid soils but dislikes poor drainage. PFAF also lists loam, clay, and mildly alkaline soils as suitable. Sun or light shade can suit it. North- or east-facing sites are preferred over warmer exposures. PFAF lists USDA zones 3–7. Dormant trees withstand deep cold, but winter warmth can trigger early growth. Late frost and cold winds can then harm new shoots. Trials in Britain have often produced poor trees.

Its yellow fall needles offer seasonal interest in woodland plantings. The bark supplies tannin. Its heavy, hard wood is strong and durable. PFAF lists leaves and shoots as edible parts. It records shoot tips as a soup flavouring. That source reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. This does not establish safety for every person or pet.