Gentsch White Canadian Hemlock

Gentsch White Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White')

Gentsch White Canadian Hemlock is a dwarf, slow-growing selection with soft needles tipped in creamy white, creating a frosted look that intensifies in cool weather. Its compact, layered form brings four-season texture and luminous contrast to shaded borders and conifer gardens.

Distinctive Features

Showy white variegation at the shoot tips reads bright in shade, and light tip pruning encourages fresh, pale growth. Fine, feathery foliage and dense branching deliver an elegant, small-scale evergreen presence.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to bright filtered light with afternoon shade in hot climates.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, acidic, humus-rich soil; avoid compaction and waterlogging.
• Water: Maintain even moisture, especially in summer; do not allow prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 3 to 5 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide in 10 years, larger with age.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Frosted white tips create a luminous accent in shade.
• Foundation Planting: Compact habit fits near entries and windows without overpowering.
• Mixed Conifers: Bright variegation contrasts with blue and deep green evergreens.
• Woodland Borders: Fine texture pairs well with ferns and shade perennials.
• Containers: Performs in large, well drained pots in sheltered exposures.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water during establishment and dry spells to keep roots cool and moist.
• Pruning: Lightly tip prune after spring flush to encourage white new growth and maintain outline.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, acid-forming, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil tests indicate need.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 inch mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind protection to reduce scorch and monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid, treating promptly if detected.

Why Choose Gentsch White Canadian Hemlock?

• Striking Variegation: Creamy white shoot tips brighten shaded plantings.
• Dwarf Scale: Small stature suits compact gardens and foundations.
• Refined Texture: Feathery needles and layered branching read elegant year round.
• Shade Adapted: Performs where many conifers prefer full sun.
• Design Versatility: Effective as specimen, in conifer groupings, or in containers.

Site in dappled light with afternoon shade, ensure acidic well drained soil and steady moisture, and tip prune lightly to sustain bright new growth and dense form.