Larix decidua aka European Larch

Taxonomy

Genus Larix Family Pinaceae Order Pinales Class Pinopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Larix decidua, commonly known as the European larch, is a slow-growing deciduous coniferous tree native to the mountains of central Europe. It can be found in the Alps, Carpathian Mountains, Pyrenees, and has also been naturalized in Scandinavia. This species can live up to 1000 years, with some claims suggesting it can even reach 2000 years, although the average lifespan is around 200 years. One remarkable example is a larch planted in 1738 that still stands today. The European larch is a hardy tree that grows up to 50 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. It has grayish brown bark and an irregularly pyramidal crown. Its long branchlets are initially light yellow or light grayish yellow, turning gray or blackish in their second or third year. The leaves are light green, measuring 2-3 cm in length and 0.5-1 mm in width. Before they fall in autumn, the leaves turn bright yellow. The seed cones start off dark red or purplish, eventually becoming green with pink scale margins. The seeds themselves are dark brownish gray. European larch is well-suited to harsh climates, withstanding winter temperatures as low as -50 °C. It can be found at altitudes between 1000 to 2200 meters above sea level. The wood of Larix decidua is highly valued for its durability and has been used for various construction purposes, including houses, fences, and gates. The bark of this tree has medicinal properties, being utilized as an astringent, balsamic, diuretic, expectorant, and stimulant. It has also been used to treat wounds, eczema, and psoriasis. Additionally, resin extracted from the European larch is used directly or processed into turpentine.

Common names

European Larch, Creosote Bush, Common Larch

How to care for European Larch

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, European Larch is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

European Larch should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

European Larch loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

European Larch requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your European Larch will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The European Larch is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

European Larch’s native range is C. Europe - Alps to N. Russia and Siberia. Naturalized in Britain.

More info:
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More Species in Larix Genus

Larix marschlinsii Hybrid Larch

Larix kaempferi Japanese Larch

Larix sibirica Siberian Larch

Larix lyallii Alpine Larch

Larix gmelinii Dahurian Larch

Larix occidentalis Western Larch

Larix decidua European Larch

Larix potaninii Chinese Larch