Canada hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) is a graceful, long-lived tree which unlike many trees grows well in shade, in as little as 5 percent sunlight. Landscape professionals often speak of quality plants that are long-lived, are refined in character and have no off-season. Hemlock is one of these elite trees, affectionally called the ‘queen of conifers’ and nicknamed the ‘redwood of the east’ they can live for over 800 years. Hemlocks can be recognized from a distance by their nodding leaders, like those of some exotic cedars. Their foliage and branches are willowy and flexible, lacking the stiffness and sharpness of most conifers.

Hemlock take well to pruning or can be left to grow in their natural form. Their tolerance to shade, contrasting dark green and light green lacy foliage, and adaptability to shade or sun make Canada hemlocks perfect for urban plantings as specimen trees, groves or privacy hedges. They add unique green color and form year-round beside or under deciduous trees. Canada hemlock provide important habitat for as many as 90 bird species including the black throated green warbler and the endangered Acadian flycatcher. Some warblers nest nowhere else.

Hemlock dominated the original forest of Ontario, making up to 30 percent of the forest cover and are considered a foundational species for their ability to influence the environment and cool watercourses. They were mined from the forest for the tannin in their bark, used to cure leather, and for building timbers. Today only a few if any are found in the remaining woodlots of southern Ontario. Our container-grown hemlocks can be planted anytime of the year with a high success rate and rapid growth. Come to the nursery and see the selection of Hemlocks, you will be impressed! Canadian hemlock is unrelated to poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), a flowering herbaceous plant. Canadian hemlock is not toxic to humans and pets.