Larix decidua | European Larch

The Larix decidua is a large, deciduous conifer native to central Europe. This tree was introduced to the UK in the 1600's and planted for its hard timber that is resistant to rot. It has a regular, conical shape that broadens with maturity. This tree is relatively fast-growing and thrives on most well-drained soil, and will tolerate extreme cold temperatures, down to -50 degrees! The thick bark is a pinky-brown that develops wide vertical fissures with maturity. Light-green leaves are soft and needle like, 2-4cm long and grow in tufts from short woody knots. They turn golden-yellow before they fall in autumn. Yellow, male flowers form on the underside of shoots and the female flowers, pink-green or white, form at the end of the shoots. The flowers then turn into brown cones, containing seed scales that will be dispersed by the wind. These cones often remain on the tree for many years. The Larix decidua is an interesting specimen tree for large gardens and parklands that is long-lived; up to 250 years!