Species Canadian hemlock
aqua-green foliage with brown stems

Canadian hemlock

Tsuga canadensis 'Coffin'

Also Known As - eastern hemlock
Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Coffin') is an evergreen tree native to North America. It can reach heights of up to 80 feet and has a distinctive shape, with its branches growing outward in a pencil-like fashion. The needles are dark green and work together with the bark to create a pattern that is unique to this species. It can thrive in zones 4-7 and prefers moist, acidic soil. Its beautiful form and lush foliage make it a stunning addition to any landscape, and it is also a popular choice for gardens and parks.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Coffin') should be watered regularly but not too much. As a general rule of thumb, water deeply once or twice a week. Depending on the weather, soil type, and temperature, water may need to be adjusted accordingly. In summer months, water the soil around the plant when the top inch is just beginning to dry out, making sure to avoid over-watering. In winter months, water the soil every 2 to 3 weeks when temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In order to ensure the right balance, check the soil for moisture 1-2 inches down before applying water. That should provide you with a good guide for how much and when to water your Canadian hemlock.

sunlight

Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Coffin') prefers partial to full sun, preferably with filtered sunlight in the afternoon. It should be planted in an area that provides 4-6 hours of partial sunlight in the morning and 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight in the afternoon. Avoid hot, direct sun during the hottest hours of the day. The more sun it gets, the denser and fuller the foliage will be.

pruning

Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Coffin') should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be kept at a minimum, removing only dead, diseased, or aged branches as needed. Avoid removing more than 10-15% of the foliage in a single pruning session, as this could cause stress on the tree. When pruning, be sure to wear pruning gloves and use by-pass pruning shears. If you need to remove large branches, prune cautiously to prevent the introduction of diseases or suckering.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Canadian hemlock typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Canadian hemlock typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map