Identification

Eastern hemlock trees grow in a natural cone shape. This conifer has long, slender branches that droop and flat, flexible needles with rounded tips. The needles are dark green on top with two bands of white on the undersides. This tree is covered in cinnamon-brown bark.

Size

Eastern hemlock trees reach 40 to 70 feet tall and spread 25 to 30 feet wide. In fertile soil and good growing conditions, the tree can grow larger.

Considerations

This evergreen conifer prefers well-drained, moist soil. For best growth, plant the tree in full to partial sun exposure. Eastern hemlocks do not grow well in dry, hot or windy sites.

Geography

The eastern hemlock's native habitat includes Nova Scotia, New Brunswick through Quebec and Ontario. It reaches south to Delaware and runs along the mountains to Georgia and Alabama. Michigan and Minnesota define the western boundary of this tree's natural habitat.