Unlike most other evergreens, the larch doesn’t keep its needles all year round. Instead, this unique tree grows a fresh set of greenery every single spring. Let’s dive into what makes larch needles so special and how they change throughout the seasons.
Why the Larch Drops Its Needles
If the larch held onto its needles through the winter, it would actually risk dying from dehydration. It all comes down to the tiny pores on the needles. In a larch, these pores stay open, and if they remained on the tree during winter, the tree would lose way too much moisture to the cold air. Shedding its “coat” is actually a clever survival strategy!
During the summer, it’s a different story. The tree can easily replace any lost water. As long as your larch is planted in the right spot, its extensive root system pulls plenty of moisture from the soil. But once the ground freezes, that water source is locked away. To prepare, the larch pulls the chlorophyll back out of its needles, causing them to fade and eventually drop to the ground.
Characteristics and Appearance
Larch needles put on quite a show throughout the year. In early spring, they emerge in a vibrant, juicy lime green. As summer rolls in, they deepen into a rich forest green, finally turning a stunning golden yellow in the fall. Because they are so lush during the warmer months, a well-placed larch can easily become the focal point of your backyard.
Larch Needle Quick Facts:
- Growth Pattern: Needles grow in tufts of up to 40
- Length: 0.4 to 1.2 inches (10 to 30 mm)
- Width: Very slender (0.5 to 0.8 mm)
- Texture: Soft, flexible needles with blunt tips
Beyond just being beautiful to look at, did you know larch needles are actually edible? They’re great for adding a unique twist to your cooking. The young, tender shoots—best harvested in April and May—are the most popular. You can toss them into a smoothie for a fresh kick or steep them to make a fragrant herbal tea.
