Eastern Hemlock is a medium to large evergreen tree native to eastern North America, typically growing 40–70 feet tall, though it can reach much taller in ideal conditions. It thrives in cool, moist forests and is often found along streams and shaded slopes.

This tree is recognized by its short, flat needles that are dark green on top and feature two pale stripes underneath. The needles are arranged along slender, drooping branches, giving the tree a soft, graceful appearance. Its bark is gray-brown and becomes deeply furrowed with age.

Eastern Hemlock produces small, hanging cones (seed structures) that mature in the fall. It plays an important ecological role by providing dense shade and habitat for wildlife. However, it is currently threatened by the hemlock woolly adelgid (invasive sap-feeding insect), which has impacted many populations.

References

Eastern hemlock. (n.d.). The Morton Arboretum. https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/eastern-hemlock/

Tsuga canadensis (Canada hemlock, Canadian Hemlock, Eastern Hemlock, Hemlock Spruce, Spruce Pine) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). Plants.ces.ncsu.edu. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/tsuga-canadensis/

Words by Ben Hansen.  Photos by Sarah Cote.  2026