european larch

larix decidua

• A tall, deciduous (drops its leaves) conifer
   
• Bright pink, feathery female flowers (larch roses)
   
• Vivid green needles
   
• Smells strongly of turpentine

Can be distinguished from Japanese larch which has rose-like cones with scales turned back
 

Where found

Forestry plantations – grown both for timber and as a ‘nurse’ for other species. Seeds blow on wind to spring up in sheltered hollows and upland valleys
 

When to look for

• Leafing March-April
   
  Flowers March-May