Species Canadian hemlock
green foliage with light-gray branches

Canadian hemlock

Tsuga canadensis 'Slenderella'

Also Known As - eastern hemlock
Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Slenderella') is a slow-growing coniferous evergreen tree. It features a majestic pyramidal shape with gracefully arching branches. Its beautiful silver-blue needles are ¾-1¼ inches long and give off a refreshing scent when crushed. This stately species grows best in partial to full sun and shallow, well-drained soils. It is tolerant to drought and adaptable to a variety of soil conditions. As it matures, this evergreen exudes a strong, rugged form that is sure to bring interest to your landscape.

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

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Canadian hemlock requires regular watering throughout the growing season and should be kept consistently moist. Water the plant thoroughly, so that the soil is saturated and water runs freely from the bottom of the pot, when you first notice the soil has started to dry out. It should be watered at least once a week, which should be increased to twice a week during hotter periods. During the winter months, reduce watering and check the soil periodically so that it does not completely dry out.

sunlight

Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Slenderella') prefers to be in a partially shaded area that receives some direct sunlight during the morning and early afternoon. Depending on where the tree is planted, it can tolerate up to 4 hours of direct sun daily. In areas with higher temperatures and intense sunlight, it's best to provide shielding from the direct sunlight to reduce stress on the tree. During hot summer days, filtered sunlight is ideal for this plant species.

pruning

Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Slenderella') should be pruned lightly during late winter when the plant is in a period of dormancy. This is to help maintain the tree's desired shape and size. Its upright form tends to have lower branches that grow out and down as the plant ages. Remove these lower branches up to a height that compliments the desired shape of the tree. It should also be pruned to remove any dead wood, excessive stems, diseased branches, or crossing branches that could be competing for resources such as light and nutrients. Pruning can also help create a fuller shape of the tree where needed. The goal for pruning should be to promote dense growth and natural shape leading to a healthy plant.

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