Canadian Hemlock

Tsuga canadensis

Canadian Hemlock is the most shade-tolerant evergreen conifer — the only needle evergreen that truly thrives in deep shade. Its graceful, drooping branches and fine-textured foliage create an elegant screening or specimen. Can be sheared into a formal hedge. Dwarf varieties like 'Jeddeloh' and 'Cole's Prostrate' are exceptional.

Hardiness Zones

3-7

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Water Needs

Moderate

Maintenance

Moderate

Mature Size

40-70 ft (dwarf: 3-10 ft) H × 25-35 ft W

Growth Rate

Slow

Bloom Season

Non-flowering (conifer)

Bloom Color

N/A

Care Guide

Partial shade to full shade (tolerates sun in cool climates). Moist, well-drained acidic soil. Protect from wind and hot afternoon sun. Monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid — treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide if detected. Mulch heavily.

Landscape Uses

Shade screenFormal hedgeWoodland gardensFoundation plantingSpecimen tree

Best Growing Regions

northeastmidwest

Great Companion Plants

RhododendronRhododendron spp.

Mountain LaurelKalmia latifolia

Ferns

HostaHosta spp.

AzaleaRhododendron spp.

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