Larch

Scientific name: Larix decidua
Common name: Common Larch
 

A member of the Pinaceae family, the larch is the only European species of the family found in Italy. In the Italian and European wild flora, larches are the only conifers whose leaves are not persistent, although there are other genera of deciduous gymnosperms in the world. It grows quickly and has a very long average life span. It is easily recognized by its open, sparse foliage, straight trunk with a very broadened base and light pyramidal crown.

The Romans came across the larch about 2,000 years ago and called it "larix" a name given by the Gauls, population of the Alps. The scientific epithet decidua comes from the Latin "deciduus," or "falling," to describe the larch's unusual habit of shedding its needles in autumn. Although its needles look light, the wood of the larch is strong, very resinous, and therefore resistant to the elements. In earlier times, hollowed-out larch logs were used as water pipes for wells. Actually, sturdy larch wood has many uses, but it is famous because Venice rests on larch pillars. In Zermatt, Switzerland, a house built with larch wood is said to have stood for about 1,000 years.

The aromatic resin of the larch that naturally emerges from the trunk of the tree is of primary interest for therapeutic purposes. Larch turpentine, which has anti-inflammatory properties, is also made from the resin. It is used in the treatment of rheumatic pains, blisters, abscesses and respiratory tract inflammation.