European larch
ExplorePlants
European larch
Larix decidua
The European larch is a tall tree that loves to grow in cool, mountainous areas. Its needles turn golden-yellow in the fall, making it a beautiful sight!
Habitat: Mountain regions
Appearance
The European larch is a unique conifer that sheds its soft, bright green needles in autumn, turning a spectacular golden-yellow before they fall. Its bark is grayish-brown and fissured, with reddish-brown new shoots, making it stand out from evergreen conifers.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassPinopsidaOrderPinalesFamilyPinaceaeGenusLarix
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Its sticky resin was historically used to make Venice turpentine, an old-fashioned glue!
Larch can be one of the fastest-growing conifer trees, shooting up to a meter a year!
Unlike most conifers, European larch needs lots of sunshine to grow big and strong!
Young larch cones start out red or purple before turning brown and woody!
Special abilities
Ability
Winter Shedder
European larch can survive harsh winters by shedding its needles, which reduces water loss when the ground is frozen.
Ability
Durable Wood
European larch has incredibly strong and naturally durable wood that helps it resist decay and damage from insects.
Ability
Pioneer Spirit
European larch can quickly colonize disturbed lands, thriving in open, sunny areas to help new forests grow.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 2500-4000 cm
- Spread
- 800-1500 cm
- Bloom Season
- Early spring
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- None
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Wind
Watch
Ecological connections
symbiotic with
Deceiver mushroom
Laccaria laccata
Its fungi helps roots absorb nutrients.
eats
Larch bud moth
Zeiraphera griseana
Its caterpillars munch on needles.
eats
Red Squirrel
Sciurus vulgaris
Feasts on its nutritious seeds from cones.
eats
Roe deer
Capreolus capreolus
Browses on young shoots and bark.
Traits
Deciduous
Deciduous plants periodically shed all their leaves, typically during autumn or dry seasons.
Cold Hardy
Cold hardy plants are able to withstand low temperatures and freezing conditions without significant damage.
Coniferous
Coniferous plants are typically evergreen, bearing needles or scales and reproductive cones.
Fall Color
Fall color refers to the seasonal change in foliage pigmentation, primarily in deciduous plants, displaying vibrant hues.
Timber
Timber refers to wood that has been prepared for use in building and carpentry.
Mountain
This habitat trait identifies species found in mountainous regions, characterized by high elevation, steep slopes, and varying climate zones.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Stay on paths when exploring forests and don't climb trees without an adult.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is European larch?
2500-4000 cm
How wide does European larch spread?
800-1500 cm
When does European larch bloom?
Early spring
Is European larch edible?
Yes
Is European larch toxic?
None
What is European larch's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is European larch pollinated?
Wind
Where is European larch usually found?
Mountain regions
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
