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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Tamarack (Larix laricina) is a unique conifer, as unlike most conifers, it completely drops its needles each fall. It grows naturally in bogs, marshes and waterlogged organic soils across northeastern North America. It typically reaches 10 to 20 m in height, with a slender form and narrow crown. Its needles are soft, fine and light green in spring and summer, turning a striking golden yellow before dropping in fall. The bark is smooth at first, then becomes grey-brown and lightly scaly with age.
Furthermore, tamarack is recognized as a keystone plant for biodiversity in many North American ecoregions, as they support a high diversity of beneficial insects and caterpillars, which in turn supports the food web for birds.

Medicinal and culinary uses
The young shoots harvested in spring, while still tender, can be eaten raw in small amounts to flavour salads, with an acidic and resinous taste typical of boreal cuisine. The dried needles can be ground into powder to season a flavoured salt, or infused in syrup to sweeten desserts, beverages or culinary preparations.

When infused, the dried needles produce a tea rich in vitamin C, traditionally consumed for its tonic properties and to help the body adapt to seasonal changes. A decoction of bark or needles was used to relieve cough, sore throat, congestion and prevent scurvy. Tamarack contains volatile compounds such as alpha- and beta-pinene, known for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and expectorant properties, which support its traditional use for respiratory health.

Ecological roles
Tamarack plays a key role in wetland ecosystems. It provides valuable habitat for several bird species specialized in bog environments. Its fallen needles and vertical structure help maintain a cool, humid microclimate favourable to sphagnum mosses and other characteristic bog plants. Its spring flowering and fall needle drop create seasonal ecological pulses that support biodiversity in northern wetland habitats.

Tamarck seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.