Larix Occidentalis
Contents
Description
Larix Occidentalis is a unique tree species that belongs to the Pinaceae family, commonly known as Western Larch or Mountain Larch. This deciduous conifer tree is native to North America, specifically the western regions of the United States and Canada.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Larix |
Appearance
Larix Occidentalis can grow up to 200 feet tall and 5 feet in diameter. It has a conical shape with a straight trunk and a narrow crown. Its bark is grayish-brown and scaly. The leaves are needle-like, about 1 inch long, and turn yellow in autumn. The tree produces small cones that are about 1 inch long and have a purplish-brown color.
Care Guide
Water: Larix Occidentalis requires moderate watering, especially during its early growth stages. It can tolerate some drought but prefers moist soil.
Fertilization: It is recommended to fertilize the tree in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level ranging from 5.0 to 6.5.
Sunlight: Larix Occidentalis requires full sunlight exposure.
Hardiness Zones: The tree can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and is suitable for hardiness zones 2 to 6.
Common Pests & Diseases
Larix Occidentalis is susceptible to various pests and diseases such as bark beetles, aphids, and rust diseases. Common pests can cause defoliation and weaken the tree, while diseases can cause discoloration and death of the foliage. It is recommended to keep the tree healthy and inspect it regularly for signs of pests and diseases.
Habitat
Larix Occidentalis is commonly found in high-elevation regions, including mountain slopes and valleys. It grows in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil. The tree is also found in mixed forests with other conifers such as Douglas Fir, Ponderosa Pine, and Lodgepole Pine.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Larix Occidentalis an evergreen or deciduous tree?
A: Larix Occidentalis is a deciduous conifer tree that sheds its needles in autumn.
Q: What is the height and diameter of the tree?
A: Larix Occidentalis can grow up to 200 feet tall and 5 feet in diameter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Larix Occidentalis?
A: Common pests include bark beetles and aphids, while common diseases include rust diseases.
Q: What is the suitable hardiness zone for Larix Occidentalis?
A: Larix Occidentalis is suitable for hardiness zones 2 to 6.
Related Plants
- Larix Kaempferi (Japanese Larch)
- Larix Decidua (European Larch)
- Larix Laricina (Tamarack Larch)
- Larix Sibirica (Siberian Larch)
References
- “Larix occidentalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c858.
- “Larix Occidentalis.” The Gymnosperm Database, www.conifers.org/pi/Larix_occidentalis.php.
- “Western Larch.” United States Department of Agriculture, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/larix_occidentalis.shtml.
