spring and in October turn yellow and drop off. The cypress, which
is described below, is another cone-bearing tree which sheds its
leaves in winter.

[Illustration: FIG. 15.--Twig of the Larch in Winter.]

Form and size: A medium-sized tree with a conical head and a straight
and tapering trunk. (See Fig. 90.)

Range: Central Europe and eastern and central United States.

Soil and location: Requires a deep, fresh, well-drained soil and needs
plenty of light. It flourishes in places where our native species
would die. Grows very rapidly.

Enemies: The larch is subject to the attacks of a _sawfly_, which has
killed many trees of the American species. A _fungus_ (_Trametes
pini_) which causes the tree to break down with ease is another of
its enemies.

Value for planting: A well-formed tree for the lawn. It is also useful
for group planting in the forest.

Commercial value: Because its wood is strong and durable the larch is
valuable for poles, posts, railroad ties, and in shipbuilding.

[Illustration: FIG. 16.--Twig of the Cypress.]

Other characters: The _fruit_ is a small cone about one inch long,
adhering to the tree throughout the winter.