Fig. 15.—Twig of the Larch in Winter.
Form and size: A medium-sized tree with a conical head and a straight and tapering trunk. (See [Fig. 90].)
Range: Central Europe and eastern and central United States.
Soil and location: Requires a deep, fresh, well-drained soil and needs plenty of light. It flourishes in places where our native species would die. Grows very rapidly.
Enemies: The larch is subject to the attacks of a sawfly, which has killed many trees of the American species. A fungus (Trametes pini) which causes the tree to break down with ease is another of its enemies.
Value for planting: A well-formed tree for the lawn. It is also useful for group planting in the forest.
Commercial value: Because its wood is strong and durable the larch is valuable for poles, posts, railroad ties, and in shipbuilding.
