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Description
Larix Kaempferi Pendula, also known as the Weeping Japanese Larch, is a beautiful and unique coniferous tree native to Japan. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide. The tree has a beautiful weeping habit with drooping branches that create a graceful and elegant appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Larix |
Appearance
The Weeping Japanese Larch has a distinctive appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. The tree has a conical shape with branches that droop down towards the ground. Its needles are soft and light green, turning yellow in the fall before they drop off. The tree produces small cones that are typically less than 1 inch long and are reddish-brown in color.
Care Guide
The Weeping Japanese Larch is a relatively low maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Weeping Japanese Larch:
- Water: The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the tree deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that may be damaged by winter weather.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Weeping Japanese Larch is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Weeping Japanese Larch is generally a healthy tree, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the tree’s needles and can cause them to yellow and drop off. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and browning of the needles. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Needle cast: This fungal disease causes needles to turn yellow and drop off. Remove infected needles and prune affected branches to improve air circulation.
- Canker: This fungal disease causes sunken areas on the bark and can lead to branch dieback. Remove infected branches and avoid wounding the tree.
Habitat
The Weeping Japanese Larch is native to Japan, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. The tree prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Weeping Japanese Larch be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than it would in the ground. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s roots, and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: Does the Weeping Japanese Larch need to be pruned?
A: The tree does not require pruning, but you can prune it to maintain its shape or to remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Does the Weeping Japanese Larch attract wildlife?
A: The tree provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. The tree’s cones provide a source of food for birds and small mammals, and its dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites.
Q: How long does it take for the Weeping Japanese Larch to reach maturity?
A: The tree can take up to 20 years to reach its full size, but it will begin to produce cones after about 5 years.
Related Plants
- Larix decidua (European Larch)
- Larix laricina (American Larch)
- Larix gmelinii (Dahurian Larch)
References
- “Larix kaempferi Pendula – Weeping Japanese Larch.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/Larix-kaempferi-Pendula-Weeping-Japanese-Larch
- “Larix kaempferi (Lamb.) Carrière.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262712-1
- “Weeping Japanese Larch.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c193
