Description
European Larch are a deciduous conifer that are tolerant of a wide range of soils, from moist to dry soils and even areas with heavy wind. It was common in parks, but it is now not often used in landscaping as it does not age gracefully. When it matures, the dead branchlets do not shed quickly and the tree has a rough look.
The European larch is not native to the United States, but has been grown here since the 19th century. It is often used in reforestation projects because it is a good pulp tree for the forestry industry. I have a small woods of European Larch planted 40 years ago and are nearly mature and would make fine lumber.
Needles are 1′ long, green in the summer, changing to a gold in the fall and they grow in clusters of 30-65 needles. The clusters of needles are attached to branchlets that dangle from horizontal branches. The branches of the European larch are more stout and yellow than the American larch.
More than you ever wanted to know USDA
European Larch
Scientific Name: Larix decidua
Zone: 2-6
Mature Height: 70-100 ft
Mature Width: 20-30 ft
Growth Rate: 12-30″
Soil: Moist
Sun Requirements: Sun, Light Shade
Fall Color: Brilliant Gold
Wildlife Value: Grouse eat the seeds and many animals use them for cover.
