Larch (Larix),  Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia), and Bald Cypress (Taxodium) fall into a unique category of deciduous conifers. One advantage of having some deciduous conifers in your garden is that because they lack foliage in the cold winter, they won't be susceptible to winter burn. In the fall these trees turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange, and then shed all their needles. Their winter silhouettes offer glimpses of the branching structure, cones and buds. A solitary upright Metasequoia shimmering on a frosty morning is a breathtaking site. By spring the entire tree is covered in new light green growth which is very soft to the touch.

 

Larix kaempferi 'Diana' in spring

 

Larches are native to the northern latitudes, with species known from North America, Europe and Asia, including Japan and Russia. Numerous cultivars have been developed from the various Larix species. They grow best in sunny locations with moist, well-drained soils. 'Varied Directions' is a cultivar of Larix decidua (European Larch), a spreading form with branches at various angles that cascade downward as the tree matures. 'Diana' is a Larix kaempferi (Japanese Larch) cultivar with contorted curling branches, providing excellent winter interest.  The native tamarack (Larix laricina) is found in wet sites such as Volo Bog, but will also work as a garden tree. The cultivar 'Blue Sparkler' has feathery blue foliage on a compact form and 'Nash Pendula' has a weeping form. 

 

Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Ogon' in the spring

 

Occurring in the wild in a limited range in China, Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Dawn Redwood) is adapted to grow from zones 5 to 8 in North America. It thrives in full sun and likes moist but well-drained soils. Both the species and its cultivars are being used more as landscape trees. With its golden foliage, 'Ogon' (aka 'Gold Rush') is a favorite choice for many conifer lovers. The unusual variegation of 'Silhouette'  and 'White Spot' creates a distinct impression in the garden.

 

Taxodium distichum 'Peve Minaret'

 

Monarch butterflies have started their northward migration, after having spent the winter hibernating in oyamel fir forests  (Abies religiosa) and also on Pinus pseudostrobus (smooth bark Mexican pine) and Cupressus lusitanica (Mexican cedar) in Mexico. A smaller population west of the Rockies winters in Eucalyptus globulus  (eucalyptus tree), Pinus radiata  (Monterey pine) and Cupressus macrocarpa  (Monterey cypress) in southern California. Monarch population numbers are low due to declining food sources for larvae (Asclepias spp.) and the deteriorating forests of their wintering grounds. Track their incredible migration at Journey North and find out what you can do to help. Monarchs not only go through several life cycles (egg, caterpillar, chrysallis, butterfly), but many generations live and die in one year.