Lewisii Canadian Hemlock

Lewisii Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'Lewisii')

Lewisii Canadian Hemlock is a dwarf selection of eastern hemlock valued for its fine, soft needles and compact, refined habit. Dense branching and layered texture make a graceful evergreen accent for shaded borders, courtyards, and conifer collections.

Distinctive Features

Slow growth and naturally compact structure provide year-round form with feathery, dark green foliage that reads elegant in shade. The selection offers a smaller footprint than the species with a tidy outline that needs minimal shaping.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to bright filtered light; protect from hot afternoon sun and drying winds.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, acidic, humus-rich soil; avoid heavy or waterlogged sites.
• Water: Maintain even moisture, especially in summer; do not allow prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7.
• Mature Size: Typically remains compact compared to the species, forming a small, dense plant over many years.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Fine texture and compact habit create a refined evergreen anchor in shade.
• Foundation Planting: Scales well near entries and windows without overwhelming the space.
• Mixed Conifers: Provides soft contrast to bold, blue, or golden evergreens.
• Woodland Borders: Fits naturalistic plantings beneath high shade with organic soils.
• Courtyards and Small Gardens: Dwarf stature suits tight beds and protected exposures.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water during establishment and dry spells; keep root zones consistently cool and moist.
• Pruning: Minimal; light tip pruning in late spring maintains outline and density.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, acid-forming, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil tests indicate need.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 inch mulch ring to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Shelter from wind and afternoon sun to reduce scorch; monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid and manage promptly if present.

Why Choose Lewisii Canadian Hemlock?

• Dwarf Scale: Delivers hemlock elegance in a compact, garden-friendly size.
• Refined Texture: Soft needles and layered branching add polish in shade.
• Four-Season Structure: Evergreen presence anchors beds year round.
• Shade Adapted: Performs where many conifers prefer full sun.
• Design Versatility: Equally effective as specimen, foundation accent, or in conifer groupings.

Provide dappled light, acidic well drained soil, steady moisture, and wind protection to keep foliage lush and the plant dense and healthy.