Larix kaempferi / Larice del Giappone

Origin: Japan.

Botanical characteristics: It is a deciduous conifer that reaches up to 30 mt in height, with clonal growth habit. It is similar to Larix decidua but this plant has winter purple-red shoots covered with waxy fluff. The linear leaves are up to 4 cm long and are grouped in tufts, which are dark green on the upper surface with two grey stripes on the lower one. It is a monoecious plant, in which male and female inflorescences are on same plant. The small oval pine cones are peculiar because the scales are pointed outward giving to the cones the aspect of a little rose.

Agronomic and environmental characteristics: It can adapt to any deep and well drained soil and requires a full sun exposure.

Use: It is used for ornamental purposes in parks and large gardens.