Pseudolarix amabilis aka Chinese Golden Larch

Pseudolarix amabilis, or golden larch, belongs to the pine family. Other names include false larch and golden pine. It comes from mountain regions of eastern and southeastern China. This conifer sheds its needles each year, unlike many conifers. It looks like a true larch but belongs to another genus. Its larger cones and longer needles help tell them apart.

In gardens, trees reach 30–50 feet [9.1–15.2 metres] tall. Their spread ranges from 20–40 feet [6.1–12.2 metres]. RHS gives a smaller spread of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Wild trees can reach 120 feet [36.6 metres]. Growth is slow, and full size takes decades. The crown forms a broad cone with an open shape. Wide, level branches carry smaller shoots that hang down. Mature bark turns reddish brown and develops deep cracks. Thick, square flakes form on the trunk as it ages.

The soft, flat needles have green tops and blue-green undersides. Two pale stomatal bands run along each needle's lower face. Needles grow singly on long shoots and cluster on short shoots. They turn gold or orange-yellow in fall, then drop. The gold display does not last long. Bare branches give the tree winter interest after leaf fall. Small pollen cones grow in clusters and shed pollen in April. Upright seed cones start green or purple, with a waxy coating. They turn reddish or golden brown within their first year. Each cone has pointed scales and holds small, winged seeds.

Give this tree sun and moist soil that drains well. Rich loam and acid to neutral soil suit it. Sources differ on clay, so well-drained loam is the clearest choice. Protect it from strong wind and allow room for branches. It favors cool nights and struggles with heat and high humidity. USDA ratings place it in zones 4–7. RHS rates its cold hardiness as H7. It needs no routine pruning and has few serious pest problems. Sources also report few serious diseases.

Gardeners grow golden larch as a specimen or bonsai. Its spring leaves and fall color suit large, open lawns. People have used its wood for furniture, boats, and bridges. Its bark has a role in Chinese herbal medicine for ringworm. Plants For A Future records no known food uses. That source also lists no known hazards. This does not establish that every part is safe to eat.