Tamarack

Latin Name: Larix Laricina

Non francais: Mélèze Laricin

What this species needs to thrive: Tamarack trees need to be spaced out 20ft to 30ft apart. American tamaracks need to be planted in wet soil in order to thrive. Tamarack trees need to be grown near streams or wet areas. They should also be planted right where the sun is shining.

Does this tree grow better around some plants than others?: It grows better around plants that don’t need alot of sunlight because the tamarack tree wil absorb most of the sun and cover the other little plants around it. But if you were to plant a tamarack tree it should be placed near lots of water.

What animals use this tree for food/habitat?: There are may animals that use the tamarack tree for resources but here are just a few of them. Northern Red-backed Vole, Moose, Northern Long-Eared Myotis, porcupines, Snowshoe hares, chipmunks and other small animals.

Is this tree native to north america?: What can you find out about its history? Tamaracks are a northern species and are adapted from the cold.

How big does this species grow?: About 20 metres tall as long as it is in a healthy place and has lots of sun and water.

Does this tree have any traditional uses in the Indigenous cultures?: This type of tree bark can be turned into a tea and used for medicine if you have a dry throat. It also contributes in making cosmetics and hair products after being mixed with grease. The roots of the Tamarack tree are helpful for sewing bark onto canoes. The tree bark can also be used for laxatives or skin ailments.