Canadian Hemlock

For gardeners in Zones 3 - 8, if you are looking for a tall, evergreen tree that will grow in sun or shade shade, you'll want to take a good look at the magnificent Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). This tree is native to North America and prefers partial shade in well-drained soils. It's simply wonderful in a cool, moist yard.

Soft, feathery evergreen foliage graces a strong, straight pyramidal silhouette. This impressive tree grows into a pyramidal shape supported by one strong central trunk.

Short, dark green needles are delicately arranged along the stems, and are grayish on the underside. They can be pruned and maintained in a more formal look, or allowed to grow naturally. The furrowed bark on older trees is a reddish-cinnamon color and looks fantastic.

These long-lived trees can live for hundreds of years old. You'll cherish this tree as it adds a visual element of strength and grace to your landscape.

By the way, we'd like to set your mind at rest. This tree is a member of the Pine family and it is not poisonous. Remember learning about Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher in school? This tree isn't the notorious "poison hemlock" he drank to escape punishment. (That was actually derived from Conium maculatum, which is an herbaceous member of the carrot family that is native to Eurasia.) No worries, you are safe and free to love on this tree!

You won't be the only one who loves this tree. Eastern Hemlocks make great cover for birds and other wildlife during the winter months.

If you have a ridge, shady hillside or ravine on your property - don't forget to include the perfectly elegant Canadian Hemlock tree in your landscape. Order today.

How to Use Canadian Hemlock in the Landscape

This tree will not thrive in full sun during the hot summer months. Instead, place Hemlock at the edge of a woods plant where the growing conditions are perfect.

If you have the room, use an informal grouping of 3, 5 or 7 as a backdrop to your favorite perennial or mixed border planting. This is an incredible legacy to leave for future generations.

A single specimen would give your landscape a soft, graceful look. Hemlock is one of the few evergreens that can be used in dappled shade locations, tolerating partial shade better than other evergreens.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Canadian Hemlock is a slower-growing evergreen that will not tolerate open, exposed, or hot and humid weather that you find in the more southern states. Cool moist, and slightly acidic soil is best. They handle full sun in cooler climates but will do best with afternoon shade or as an understory tree in hotter growing zones.

The right growing site will ensure your plant has the conditions it needs to thrive. Nature Hills uses Plant Sentry™ to closely manage shipments of plant materials. We protect you and your community as good stewards of the planet.

Once planted, be sure to keep your Hemlock happy and growing well by adding additional water during the dry periods.

Little pruning will be needed as they do not put on excessive amounts of growth in a season, just graceful, uniform nodding branch tips. You'll be so impressed with the beauty of this tree.

With a slow growth rate, Canadian Hemlock is long-lived and attractive to both humans and wildlife. In the right spot, this evergreen seems to have it all. Give one, or more, a home today!