Larix decidua Mill. (L. europaea) European Larch

As opposed to many other conifers larches are deciduous. The European Larch is a highly appreciated tree in parks and forests. All species need full sunlight and thrive well on a totally free space and on sufficiently moist, deep soil.

Larix decidua is absolutely frost hardy and withstands drought better than L. kaempferi. It is quite wind resistant because of its wide-reaching root system and especially fast growing when young.

Significant characteristics are: A slender, conical habit and a straight stem, horizontal or arching branches with ends reaching up, yellowish, decoratively arching twigs and a grey, later on a brown, furrowed bark.

During shooting in spring, they are incomparably pretty, as they are with the bright yellow autumn colours. Needles in clusters of 30-40, light green and soft, 10-30mm long. Female flowers are purple-red. The cones are light brown, ovate and slender. The seeds are shed by scales, whose margins do not furl.

Furthermore the Larch can be pruned. If done properly they can also be trained into graceful, loose hedges.