Weeping Canadian Hemlock

Weeping Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Pendula')

Weeping Canadian Hemlock is a graceful, cascading hemlock with soft, deep green needles on draping branchlets; its naturally pendulous habit can be staked for height or allowed to mound and spill, creating a distinctive four-season specimen for shaded gardens.

Distinctive Features

Long, arching branches sweep downward in layered curtains for a waterfall effect, while fine, flat needles provide plush texture year-round; small pendant cones add subtle ornament on mature plants.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; morning sun with afternoon shade in hot-summer regions.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil; avoid compaction and standing water.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during establishment and heat; protect from prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7.
• Mature Size: Typically 4 to 10 ft tall and 6 to 15 ft wide untrained; taller if staked to a leader.
• Bloom Time: Inconspicuous; small cones follow in summer to fall.
• Soil pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, about 4.8 to 6.5.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dramatic weeping silhouette anchors lawns, courtyards, and entries.
• Woodland Border: Pairs with ferns, hostas, and shade perennials for layered texture.
• Banks and Walls: Cascades over slopes or stonework for a natural waterfall effect.
• Reflective Setting: Striking near water features where drooping branches mirror on the surface.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply soak during dry spells and maintain even moisture with mulch.
• Pruning: Minimal; tip-prune after spring flush to refine shape; stake a leader for height and remove supports once set; avoid cuts into bare wood.
• Fertilizing: Apply an acid-forming, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil tests indicate need.
• Mulching: Spread 2 to 3 in of pine bark or leaf mold, keeping mulch a few inches from the trunk.
• Notes: Monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid and treat promptly; shelter from road salt and drying winter winds to prevent scorch.

Why Choose Weeping Canadian Hemlock?

• Signature Silhouette: Cascading, tiered branches deliver instant drama.
• Four-Season Beauty: Fine needles hold color and texture year-round.
• Flexible Training: Grow as a ground-hugging mound or stake for height.
• Shade Specialist: Thrives where many conifers struggle, especially in dappled light.

Plant in acidic, well-drained soil with steady moisture and light seasonal grooming to showcase its elegant, flowing habit.