Tsuga heterophylla

RHS Plant Profile
western hemlock
western hemlock RHS 2000

Other common names

Alaskan pine, Californian hemlock, western hemlock spruce

Synonyms

Tsuga albertiana

Award of Garden Merit
Conifers Trees

A vigorous large evergreen tree to 30m or more, conical in habit, with elegantly spreading branches bearing short, flattened, dark green needles striped white beneath. Ovoid cones are 2.5cm in length

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

wider than 8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
wider than 8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Pinaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Tsuga are evergreen trees, broadly conical in habit, with a drooping leading shoot,linear leaves which are white beneath, and small ovoid cones
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
W North America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil. Good specimen tree. Shade tolerant but requires protection from wind

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cutings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free