Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Larix kaempferi 'Wolterdingen'
Wolterdingen Dwarf Japanese Larch
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Height
- 4 ft to 5 ft
- Width
- 4 ft to 6 ft
- Flower color
- Rosy pink immature cones maturing to reddish brown
- Foliage color
- Soft bright green needles turning golden yellow in fall before dropping
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 7
- Wildlife
- Songbirds and small mammals feed on seeds with branches providing shelter
About this plant
Larix kaempferi 'Wolterdingen' features soft blue-green needles borne in dense clusters along intricately branched stems, creating a finely textured canopy that changes with the seasons. Fresh growth emerges bright green in spring, while autumn brings warm golden tones before the needles are shed. Small reddish female cones and yellow pollen cones appear in spring, adding subtle ornamental interest and contributing to the plant's seasonal character. The intricate branching remains visible through winter, providing structure even in dormancy.
Originating from a species native to Japan, this cultivar was selected in Europe for its distinctive form and ornamental qualities. Its changing foliage and sculptural branching make it a natural addition to rock gardens, conifer collections, and mixed borders, where it brings texture and seasonal variation throughout the year.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Rock Gardens · Borders · Bird Gardens
Companion plants
Boxwoods · Dwarf Korean fir · Bergenia · Maiden grass · Snowdrops · Agapanthus
Design tip
Use ‘Wolterdingen’ where its changing foliage and sculptural branching can be appreciated throughout the year. Bright green spring needles mature to soft blue-green before turning golden in autumn, while the intricate bare branches provide structure and texture through winter.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at The Oregon Garden.
