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Description
Larix Decidua, commonly known as European larch, is a deciduous conifer tree belonging to the Pinaceae family. It is a tall tree that can grow up to 45 meters in height and 1 meter in diameter. The tree has a conical shape with a straight trunk that is free of branches for a considerable length. The bark of the tree is thin, gray, and smooth when young. It becomes furrowed and scaly as the tree ages. The leaves of Larix Decidua are needle-like, soft, and light green in color. They grow in clusters of 25-40 needles and measure around 2.5 centimeters in length. The tree produces cones that are ovoid in shape and measure around 3-6 centimeters in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Larix |
Appearance
The European larch is a beautiful tree that has a conical shape with a straight trunk. The bark of the tree is thin, gray, and smooth when young, but it becomes furrowed and scaly as the tree ages. The tree’s needles are soft and light green in color, growing in clusters of 25-40 needles, and measure around 2.5 centimeters in length. The tree produces cones that are ovoid in shape and measure around 3-6 centimeters in length.
Care Guide
The European larch tree requires moderate maintenance and care. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind when caring for this tree:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. Water the tree once or twice a week during dry weather.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer to feed the tree in the spring and fall. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The European larch tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The European larch tree is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Larch casebearer: A moth that feeds on the tree’s needles in the spring.
- Larch sawfly: A type of caterpillar that feeds on the tree’s needles in the summer.
- Phytophthora root rot: A fungal disease that causes the tree’s roots to rot and can kill the tree.
Habitat
The European larch tree is native to the mountains of central Europe. It thrives in cool, moist climates and prefers well-draining soil. The tree is commonly found in mountainous regions, where it grows in mixed forests with other conifers and deciduous trees.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the European larch an evergreen or a deciduous tree?
A: The European larch is a deciduous conifer tree.Q: What is the height of a mature European larch tree?
A: A mature European larch tree can grow up to 45 meters in height.Q: What is the color of the European larch’s needles?
A: The European larch’s needles are light green in color.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the European larch tree?
A: The European larch tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Related Plants
- Larix kaempferi (Japanese larch)
- Larix laricina (tamarack)
- Larix occidentalis (western larch)
References
- “Larix decidua – European Larch.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=q510.
- “European Larch.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st635.
- “Larix decidua (European Larch).” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11473/Larix-decidua/Details.
