Eastern Hemlock
Tsuga canadensis · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood
Plant Family
Pinaceae
Tree Category
Evergreen Conifer, Forest Tree, Ornamental, Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None (Wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 7 (sometimes 8 in mountainous regions)
About This Tree
A slow-growing, long-lived coniferous tree with a broadly pyramidal crown. Branches are typically slender and horizontal to drooping at the tips. The tree is known for its shade tolerance and fine-textured appearance.
Leaf Characteristics
Small, flat, needle-like leaves approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches long. They are dark green on top with two distinct white stomatal bands underneath; arranged in two rows along the twig.
Bark Characteristics
The bark of mature trees is thick, deeply furrowed into wide, flat-topped ridges, and typically a reddish-brown to grayish-brown color. When broken, it often shows purple or reddish internal layers.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern North America (Canada south to Georgia and Alabama)
Growing Season
Perennial evergreen; new growth usually occurs in late spring; cone ripening takes place in late summer/early autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers partial shade to full shade, though can tolerate sun in cool climates; requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil; low drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Typically 60-70 feet tall (can reach over 100 feet) with a 25-35 foot spread; slow growth rate; can live over 500 years.
Special Characteristics
Extreme shade tolerance; valuable for timber and tannins (historically); high ornamental value; currently threatened by the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid pest.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical winter cover for white-tailed deer and nesting sites for many birds (warblers, juncos); seeds are eaten by chickadees, pine siskins, and squirrels.