Loowit Northern Japanese Hemlock

Loowit Northern Japanese Hemlock (Tsuga diversifolia 'Loowit')

Loowit Northern Japanese Hemlock is a dwarf, slow-growing selection with fine, soft needles and dense, layered branching that forms a compact, refined silhouette. Its graceful texture and shade tolerance make an elegant evergreen accent for courtyards, foundations, and conifer gardens.

Distinctive Features

Naturally tight habit with short, glossy deep green needles reads polished year round, while slow growth delivers long-lasting structure with minimal pruning. Layered sprays create subtle movement and depth in dappled light.

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 compaction and standing water.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially in summer; do not allow prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 2 to 4 ft tall and 2 to 3 ft wide in 10 years, remaining compact with age.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Fine texture and compact form create a refined evergreen anchor in shade.
• Foundation Planting: Scales to entries and windows without overpowering.
• Mixed Conifers: Soft contrast to blue, gold, and upright forms.
• Woodland Borders: Fits naturalistic plantings under high shade.
• Containers: Performs in large, well drained pots in sheltered exposures.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water during establishment and dry spells; maintain a cool, evenly moist root zone.
• 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: Provide wind protection to reduce scorch; monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid and treat promptly if detected.

Why Choose Loowit Northern Japanese 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.
• Low Upkeep: Slow growth and minimal pruning keep maintenance light.

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