Species Profile
Kurile Larch
Larix gmelinii var. japonica
About Kurile Larch in Alberta
Kurile larch is a deciduous conifer native to Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands. In Alberta it is an introduced tree that is exceptionally rare, with very limited known documented specimens. Its combination of soft needle clusters, small cones, and hairy young shoots can distinguish it from other larches, but a label alone should be checked carefully because several larch species are planted in Alberta.
Identification: The soft, flat needles are borne singly along long shoots and in crowded clusters on short spur shoots. Needles are about 1.5-3 cm long. They turn yellow and fall in autumn, making this a deciduous conifer rather than an evergreen.
Alberta range and habitat: Kurile larch is not native to Alberta. Its native range is Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands.
| Common name | Kurile Larch |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Larix gmelinii var. japonica |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Alberta status | Introduced and exceptionally rare in Alberta |