Quick Facts
Botanical Name: Tsuga canadensis
Mature Height: 40–70'
Mature Width: 25–35'
Recommended Spacing: 10–15'
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate (12–24" per year)
Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade (tolerates some sun)
Soil Preferences: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil
Overview
Canadian Hemlock is a graceful evergreen known for its soft, feathery needles and elegant, slightly drooping form. It creates a dense, lush screen over time and is one of the best evergreens for shaded areas, making it ideal for natural-looking privacy where other evergreens may struggle.
Best Uses
Privacy screens (especially in shade)
Windbreaks
Foundation plantings
Woodland and naturalized landscapes
Wildlife habitat
Tips for Success
Avoid hot, dry, or exposed sites
Keep soil consistently moist—does not tolerate drought well
Mulch to protect shallow roots
Monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid
Prune lightly to maintain shape and density