Common Name: Tamarack
Scientific Name: Larix laricina
Tamarack, also known as American larch, is native to large swaths of Canada, the northeastern United States and the states bordering the Great Lakes, including Minnesota. The name tamarack comes from Algonquian language, meaning “wood used for snowshoes.” Often considered a pioneer species, tamarack will usually appear in open areas with wet soils, such as bogs, and can also be found in boreal forests.
Reaching heights of 30-60 feet at maturity, the tamarack is a deciduous conifer, meaning it will lose its needle-like leaves in the fall. First, however, these leaves will change from green to a brilliant yellow. It is also one of the last trees in the landscape to display its fall color, making it easy to locate.
To find tamaracks at the Arboretum, make sure to stop by the Bog Boardwalk, the Larch Collection and along Green Heron Trail. To view other species and cultivars of Larix, stop by the Dwarf Conifer Collection or use our Plant Finder to see the locations where the different types of larches are found.