Tree · Pinaceae family
European larch
Larix decidua
In short a 10-second read
European larch (tree) grows to 25–35 m tall and 6–10 m wide when mature. It grows best in full sun, in average to moist soil. Hardy to −46 °C.
× spread 6–10 m
Where to plant
Sun, soil, frost.
It grows best in full sun, in average to moist soil. Hardy to −46 °C.
Sun
Elsewhere it will grow less well.
Soil and water
average to moist · watering: moderate
Soil: loamy, sandy, gravelly
Frost
It copes with a normal winter outdoors.
How much space it takes
Mature size.
The mature plant next to a person (175 cm).
Next to a person
The final size depends on the cultivar and the spot — we give the range from smallest to largest.
Calendar
What to do and when.
Months for Central Europe. The line shows the current month.
The year at a glance
Pruning
No pruning needed — just remove overlong shoots (April–August).
Planting
container plant: March, October–November
Winter protection
not needed
Overwintering
It copes with winter on its own.
It overwinters outdoors without protection, hardy to −46 °C.
- Needs no protection
- Hardy to −46 °C
- Deciduous — bare in winter
Frequently asked
Quick answers.
Does European larch tolerate shade?
No, it needs full sun.
How much space does European larch need?
At maturity 6–10 m wide and 25–35 m tall; recommended spacing 600 cm.
Does European larch survive winter outdoors?
Yes, without protection, hardy to −46 °C.
Where the data comes from
The data is indicative — we are still comparing it with further sources. Last checked 28 September 2026.
Show sources (11)
Similar plants
