Larix lyallii

Larix lyallii

Secure  (NatureServe)[2]
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Gymnospermae
Division: Pinophyta
Class: Pinopsida
Order: Pinales
Family: Pinaceae
Genus: Larix
Species:
L. lyallii
Binomial name
Larix lyallii
Natural range of Larix lyallii

Larix lyallii, the subalpine larch, or simply alpine larch, is a deciduous, coniferous tree native to northwestern North America. It lives at high altitudes, from 1,500 to 2,900 meters (4,900 to 9,500 ft),[3] in the Rocky Mountains of Idaho, Montana, British Columbia, and Alberta. There is a disjunct population in the Cascade Range of Washington.

Subalpine larch is hardy and can survive at low temperatures and on thin rocky soils, often being found near the tree line.[3] It can grow in a variety of soils as long as the soil is moist but well drained. However, it is relatively shade intolerant.[3]

David Lyall seems to have discovered the species between 1858 and 1861. John Bernhard Leiberg described it in 1900.[3]

  1. ^ Farjon, A. (2013). "Larix lyallii". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2013: e.T42314A2971798. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T42314A2971798.en. Retrieved 20 November 2021.
  2. ^ NatureServe (2024). "Larix lyallii". Arlington, Virginia. Retrieved 11 September 2024.
  3. ^ a b c d Arno, Stephen F.; Hammerly, Ramona P. (2020) [1977]. Northwest Trees: Identifying & Understanding the Region's Native Trees (field guide ed.). Seattle: Mountaineers Books. pp. 76–83. ISBN 978-1-68051-329-5. OCLC 1141235469.