what is a larch tree

A larch tree is a deciduous conifer in the genus Larix, of the family Pinaceae. It is native to the cooler regions of the northern hemisphere, where it is found in lowland forests in the high latitudes, and high in mountains further south. Larches are among the dominant plants in the boreal forests of Siberia and Canada. Although they are conifers, larches are deciduous trees that lose their needles in the autumn. The needles are only an inch or so long, and sprout in little clusters along the length of the stems. Each cluster has 30 to 40 needles. Larches are tall trees with a widespread canopy, best suited to rural landscapes and parks where they have plenty of room to grow and spread their branches. Most larch tree types grow between 50 and 80 feet tall and spread as much as 50 feet wide. The lower branches may droop while the mid-level branches are nearly horizontal. Larch wood is valued for its tough, waterproof, and durable qualities. Top quality knot-free timber is in great demand for interior paneling, fences, posts, buildings, roof shingles, and coffins. Larch trees are also used for ornamental purposes, especially in bonsai culture where they are over-pruned so their edgy bark and small needles can be appreciated on a smaller scale.