Japanese Larch 'Paper Lanterns'

About this plant

Larix kaempferi 'Paper Lanterns' stands out in any landscape with its unique character. Unlike most conifers, this Japanese Larch sheds its needles annually, providing a breathtaking spectacle through the seasons. In spring, soft, bright green needles emerge, followed by a lush, vibrant green canopy throughout summer. As autumn approaches, 'Paper Lanterns' truly shines, transforming into a brilliant display of golden-yellow before its needles gracefully fall, revealing an attractive, often reddish-brown bark and a captivating branch structure. This cultivar offers a refined, medium-sized presence, making it suitable for a variety of garden styles from woodland borders to specimen plantings. Ideal for adding year-round interest, its sculptural winter silhouette provides architectural beauty. Plant 'Paper Lanterns' as a focal point, in groups, or along property lines to enjoy its dynamic seasonal changes and elegant form. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it a prized addition for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking something extraordinary.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires well-drained soil and prefers full sun for best growth and autumn color. Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature. Pruning is generally not required but can be done in late winter to shape or remove dead/damaged branches.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.