The thesis represents an analysis of European larch (Larix decidua Mill.) growth dynamics on steep slopes of the Kamniška Bistrica valley in a protective forest in the zone between 1300 m and 1400 m above sea level. The analysis has included trees in extreme site conditions, where European larch together with Dwarf Alpenrose (Rhodotamnus chamaecistus) creates the vegetation community Rhodothamno chamaecisti- Laricetum deciduae. For comparison of acquired data an analysis of European larch growth in a managed forest at comparable elevation above sea level on the Velika Planina plateau, where European larch is mixed into beech and spruce stands. It has been established that European larch on exposed sites has a steady growing, howeverit is much slower than on more favourable sites. The oldest trees on the most exposed sites reach quite an advanced age, also over 200 years. The social class and crowding of the tree canopy are factors which have significant impact on radial and height growth. The influence of climate factors on tree ring width was insignificant for the majority of larch trees.
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