Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)

The Canadian hemlock has delicate and lacy branches and needles. The needles are small, dark green, and have two silver bands on their undersides. The tree's cones hang down like small ornaments. The Canadian hemlock is noted for having the smallest needles and cones of all hemlocks. This tree is popularly used for hedging and attracts birds and mammals.

Family: Pinaceae (Pine)

Characteristics: The half-inch to three-quarters of an inch-long needles are deep green and have two silver bands on their undersides. Cones are oval shaped, brown, and hang down from branches. Bark is red-brown. It is scaly when young and becomes ridged and furrowed with age. This tree has a soft pyramidal shape with widely spaced and hanging branches. It grows 40-70 feet high and 25-35 feet wide.

Foliage: Evergreen (foliage present year round)

Geographic Origin: North America (native)

Cultivation Notes: Requires low maintenance. Does best in part-shade to full-shade. In cool climates, this tree may be able to tolerate full sun. Prefers medium-moist and well drained soils. This tree should be planted in a space protected from strong wind and the hot sun.

Number on Campus: 8

Sources: Dirr, Morton Arboretum, Missouri Botanical Garden