Eastern hemlock
Tsuga canadensis 路 Pinaceae 路 also Canada hemlock, Canadian hemlock
A dense, graceful pyramidal evergreen with a drooping leader, pendulous branch tips, tiny flat needles with two white bands beneath and small hanging cones. It is the only conifer of its region that thrives in deep shade and takes shearing well, so it is used for hedges and screens on the shady side of a property. Hemlock woolly adelgid has killed vast wild stands and must be managed on planted trees.
Where it stands
Native
This tree evolved here, and local wildlife depends on it.
Recommended
A city, utility or extension service lists it among the trees it approves for planting here.
- 馃嚭馃嚫 Washington, DC, United States 路 On the Casey Trees Tree Rebate eligible species listsource
Care
Transplants well; plant in a cool, sheltered spot out of hot afternoon sun and winter wind and keep the soil moist, since it will not tolerate drought. Shear in early summer if hedging. Inspect for hemlock woolly adelgid (white cottony tufts under twigs), which is treatable with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide; also elongate hemlock scale and spider mites.
Benefits
Good for