The Larch (Larix Europcea) is found in various parts of Europe; the finest varieties being in Russia.

Appearance

The wood is honey yellow or brownish white in colour, the hard part of each ring being of a redder tinge, silky lustre.

There are two kinds in this country, one yellowish white, cross-grained, and knotty; the other (grown generally on a poor soil or in elevated positions) reddish brown, harder, and of a straighter grain.

Characteristics

"Decidedly the toughest and most lasting of all the coniferous tribe," 3 very strong and durable - shrinks very much - straight and even in grain, and free from large knots, very liable to warp, but stands well if thoroughly dry - is harder to work than Baltic fir - but surface is smoother, when worked. Bears nails driven into it better than any of the pines.

Uses

Chiefly for posts and palings exposed to weather, railway sleepers, etc.; also for flooring, stairs, and other positions where it will have to withstand wear.

American Larches are the black variety (Larix pendula) known as Hackmatack or as Tamarak; and also the red variety (Larix microcarpa).

The timber from these trees resembles that from the European larch.