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Home > Larch > European Larch

European Larch

European Larch is a shade intolerant species that is common throughout Carpathian Mountains and Alps. Presently, it is a sought after one for its beautiful appearance that enhances gardens and parks.

European Larch

Scientific Classification

Kingdom Plantae
Division Pinophyta
Class Pinopsida
Order Pinales
Family Pinaceae
Genus Larix
Scientific Name Larix decidua

Weeping European Larch

European Larch Bonsai

European Larch Seeds

European Larch Cone

Quick Information

Also Known as Common larch
Tree Type Deciduous
Identification Size: 82-148 ft (25-45 m)

Trunk Diameter: 3.2 ft (1 m)

Needles:1-1.1 inch (2-4 cm) light green which changes into bright yellow before shedding

Cones:1-2.3 in (2-3 cm) green, red and color changing at times

Distribution Central Europe
Habitat Mountainous zones with an elevation of 1000-2400 meter
Subspecies
  • Larix decidua subsp. decidua
  • Larix decidua subsp. polonica
Hardiness Zone 2-6
Growth Rate Fast
Lifespan 1000 years (in one case a tree has been reported to live as long as 2000 years)
Growing Conditions

Sun: Full exposure

Water: Medium

Soil: Well-drained soil, loamy and moist soil

Drought Tolerant No
Disease & Pests

Disease: Larch canker

Pests: Larch case-bearer

Reproductive System Monoecious
Propagation From seeds
Seedling Development In full sun they germinate well
Wildlife Value For forestation (since its growth rate is very fast), red squirrels eat seeds, black grouse eat immature cones and buds
Uses Wood is used for building yacht, rusting fencing
IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern

European Larch Tree

European Larch Tree Pictures

Interesting Facts

  • Three generations bearing the title of Dukes of Atholl had planted the species to a mentionable extent. The fourth duke also encouraged the cultivation to go on and he even wrote a book named ‘Observations on Larch’ in 1807. Even there is a claim that a particular tree, planted by the second Duke of Atholl is still thriving.
  • According to the European folklore, burning and using the larch as a wear can protect an individual from evil attacks. This was a long-standing tool used for enchantment.

European Larch Needles

European Larch Tree Images

References:

  1. https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/larix/decidua/
  2. https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/european-larch/
  3. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees/european-larch/

Published on December 9th 2018 by Sahana Kanjilal under Larch.
Article was last reviewed on 5th December 2022.

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