The Larch!

The Larch (larix decidua) is, as the scientific name suggests, a deciduous conifer. Found all over Britain, they are extremely tolerant of the cold and are frequently to be found growing at the tree-line of the Alps (up to 8000ft).

The soft, green needles appear in Britain at this time of year and are accompanied by these attractive immature cones. When fertilized, they will turn brown and harden into the more familiar cones. These cones contain seeds which provide food for many woodland birds including Siskins and Redpolls.

Larches can grow to 180ft high but more commonly to between 80ft and 150ft. This, somewhat smaller specimen was growing on the site of Shipley Hall.