Larch

Larix decidua

infusion

Soft green tufts of needles with a citrus taste, nibbled raw in spring or made into syrup.

Origin

Mountains of Europe and Siberia

Where to find it

In the open forests of the Alps, between 1,200 and 2,400 meters; in Siberia and the Altai, its resin is also sold in markets as chewing gum.

Season (United States)

April to May

Preparation

Only the spring tufts are picked, still tender and pale green: later, the needles harden. For syrup, they are steeped in sugar for a few weeks.

Did you know?

It is Europe's only conifer that sheds its needles in winter.