The European larch(Larix decidua) is widespread in Central Europe and is found as far east as the Carpathian Mountains. It is often associated with beech and spruce. It is related to the Siberian larch(Larix sibirica), which generally grows more slowly and is finer overall.
Sapwood narrow and yellowish, heartwood reddish brown, darkening, latewood darker, sharply contrasting with earlywood on both sides, forming clear streaks. Numerous resin channels. Decorative.
The spec. weight is given as 0.59 (0.44…0.82) t/cbm at a wood moisture content of 12%. Moderate shrinkage, the tangential shrinkage is 9.1%, the radial shrinkage 3.8%. Drying must be slow if twisting and cracking are to be avoided. Larch wood is freshly processed, aromatic and pleasantly scented with resins. It is easy to work with all tools. Due to the resin content, surface treatments are not unproblematic (treatments with alcohol may be necessary before varnishing). Moderately weather-resistant (class 3). When used outdoors, resin can escape in strong sunlight (-> Resin galls).
General construction timber for interior and exterior use, laminated also as window timber, parquet and flooring.
| References: |
Former ESPEN office, Bad Vilbel |
| Sources: |
Information service wood GOTTWALD (1970): Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers WAGENFÜHR (1996): Wood Atlas |
References:
Rhombus profile 26x90mm
sorted on rift cut
Mountain larch / European larch Larch wood
