Larix gmelinii Seeds | Dahurian Larch Dahurica
LATIN NAME: Larix gmelinii
COMMON NAME: Dahurian Larch, Gmelin Larch
Plant Profile
Larix gmelinii, better known as Dahurian Larch, is a tall, deciduous conifer in the pine family, native to cold forests of siberia, mongolia and northeastern China. The Dahurian larch is tree of great cold forests of north, and it is one of the most cold-hardy of all the trees of the world. At maturity it stands about Twenty metres. The flowering period doubles as a feeding season for bees and other pollinators. Each of these traits is modest on its own; together they make a garden-worthy plant.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the pine family, Larix gmelinii is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Dahurian larch has a real and distinguished place in the research. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Dahurian Larch has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, the Dahurian larch is a generous tree of the garden. Its small, rounded cones feed seed-eating birds, and its fine, soft, deciduous foliage gives a fine, airy cover to birds and wildlife through the summer. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
Larches give the toughest of softwood timbers and a golden autumn show; larch arabinogalactan is a soluble fiber supplement studied for immune support.
Growing from Seed
Dahurian Larch grows readily from seed. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. A cool, moist period before sowing helps the seeds wake evenly — a few weeks in damp medium in the refrigerator is the usual approach. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Being a tall, deciduous conifer, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Dahurian Larch, Gmelin Larch is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. The seed responds well to a spell of cold stratification, a small step that pays off.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Dahurian Larch often pair it with these related subjects: