Alpine Larch
Larix lyallii
One of the highest-elevation tree species in North America; highly cold-adapted.
Field reference
Family
Pinaceae
Growth rate
Slow
Mature size
40–80 ft tall, 20–30 ft spread
Hardiness zone
2-6
Soil preference
Cold, well-drained rocky or alpine soils
Sun
Full Sun
Pruning window
Late winter (minimal pruning; avoid live tissue removal)
Wood properties
Strong, dense softwood; high resin content; very durable in cold environments
Native range
High elevations of Rocky Mountains (Montana, Idaho, British Columbia)
Green weight
48 lb/ft³
Common questions
Why does alpine larch grow so high in elevation?
It is adapted to extreme cold, wind, and short growing seasons near treeline.
Is alpine larch deciduous?
Yes. It is a conifer that sheds its needles each fall.
How fast does alpine larch grow?
It grows very slowly due to harsh alpine conditions.
Where does alpine larch grow naturally?
It grows in high mountain environments of the northern Rocky Mountains.
Is alpine larch rare?
Yes. Its distribution is limited to high-elevation refugia.
Related species in Pinaceae
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