All About Eastern Hemlock:
Scientific Nomenclature: Tsuga canadensis
Common Names: Eastern hemlock, Canadian hemlock, spruce pine
Mature Height: 40–70 feet
Mature Spread: 25–35 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Attracts Wildlife: Birds and mammals
Messiness: Cones reach maturity in autumn and drop from the tree then.
Shape: Pyramidal
Native to Kentucky: Yes
Preferred Soils: Prefers moist, well-drained acidic (<6.0pH) soils. Is tolerant of clay, loam or sand.
Screening: Can endure being pruned into a privacy hedge but it is not recommended as its natural form is far better looking. Has a cultivar/variety named ‘Jeddeloh’ that is a naturally shrubby form that is better suited as a screening plant.
Drought Tolerance: Does not tolerate drought, prefers areas with slightly cooler summers.
Coniferous or Deciduous: Coniferous
Pruning: Can endure pruning but it is entirely unnecessary as this tree is best left unpruned as an ornamental tree.
Climate Quick Facts:
Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one Eastern hemlock will:
- Sequester ~237 pounds of CO2.
- Reduce stormwater runoff by 42 gallons.