What does larch mean?
A larch is an unusual kind of conifer: it belongs to the same broad group as pines, spruces, and firs, but unlike most evergreen conifers, it sheds its soft, needle-like leaves in autumn. Several species grow across the cooler parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including the widely planted European larch and the North American larch, sometimes called tamarack. The name can refer either to the tree itself or to its pale, relatively lightweight timber. Larch wood is valued for being durable and for its attractive grain, and it has been used in construction, paneling, flooring, and boatbuilding. Because it combines the form of a conifer with the seasonal behaviour of a deciduous tree, the larch is often noted as a memorable exception to the usual distinction between evergreens and deciduous trees.
A deciduous coniferous tree of the genus Larix, having soft, needle-like leaves that fall in autumn.
"A mature larch stood alone above the frozen meadow."
The name refers to the tree rather than to a particular species unless a modifier specifies one.
The pale, durable timber obtained from larch trees.
"They built the garden fence from untreated larch wood."
This sense denotes the material as well as objects made from it.
Use larches for multiple trees; in the timber sense, the form is normally larch wood or larchwood rather than a plural.
"Rows of larches shelter the farmhouse from the winter winds."
Although it resembles a pine or fir, a larch is a conifer that drops its needles every autumn.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does larch come from?
The English word entered through Old French larice, from the Latin laricem, an accusative form related to Latin laricea. Latin laricem is generally traced to Ancient Greek λάριξ, the name of a tree known for shedding its leaves. The modern scientific genus name Larix was formed from the same Latin terminology, while related names include Italian laricio and German Lärche.
Related word forms
How larch is actually used
The word is standard in British and American English. In British usage, “larch” also commonly denotes the timber, while “tamarack” is more frequent in North America for the North American larch but can cause regional ambiguity.
Easily confused with larch
A larch is a deciduous coniferous tree, whereas a lark is a small songbird.