Larix decidua

GB: Larch, European Larch   F: Mélèze   D:Lärche, Europäische Lärche   I: Larice, Larice europeo   VL: Lariks   NL: Lariks, Lerken

Larch

Larch is a typical tree found in the Alp mountains in Central Europe with a straight trunk. It grows to a height of about 40 m with diameters ranging from 40 – 70 cm. It is a deciduous coniferous tree that reproduces via cones (coniferous) but looses its needles in fall (deciduous).
Sapwood is thin, from 1 to 3 cm and yellow. The clearly demarcated heartwood is light brown to dark red brown and can vary largely, depending on origin and growth conditions. The texture is fine to medium according to growing speed. The resin canals are smaller than in Pine, but do occur as often. Softwood shows medium to high density and very good strength properties. Gluing properties are good, if the wood is technically dried, but due to resins it can be more difficult, if the wood is not dried. Sawing properties are good, but due to resin clogging of saw blades may occur. Nailing and screwing properties are good, but pre-boring is necessary.

Description