The Larch is the only deciduous (sheds its leaves in autumn) conifer. A native to the Alps, it is now cultivated throughout Europe. It grows to 40 metres and has a thin set crown. In old trees, the bark is deeply furrowed. The needles are borne in clusters on older twigs. The tree flowers in early April and in Autumn it bears ovoid cones which remain on the tree for several years. The tree produces seeds by the time it is 15 years of age. It is a sun loving, frost resistant, fast growing tree. Its wood is used for building boats, paneling and furniture.Here the female flowers can be seen, also the leaves beginning to develop, among some of last years cones. Pictured at Maulden Woods.
Added:
24th Apr 2018 by Diane Earl
Subjects:
Biology, Environmental Science, Science
Key Stages:
Foundation, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, Key Stage 4+