Golden Duchess Canadian Hemlock

Golden Duchess Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis 'MonKinn')

Golden Duchess Canadian Hemlock is a dwarf, compact selection with finely textured needles and bright golden new growth that softens to chartreuse and green through the season. Its low, rounded form brings four-season color and refined texture to shaded borders, foundations, and conifer gardens.

Distinctive Features

Luminous gold flushes on dense, layered sprays create a soft, mounded silhouette; best color develops in bright light with afternoon shade to prevent scorch. Slow growth and tidy branching keep maintenance minimal.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to bright filtered light; provide afternoon shade and wind protection in hot sites.
• 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: 4 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 2 to 3 ft tall and 3 to 4 ft wide in 10 years, larger with age.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Golden new growth creates a bright accent in dappled shade.
• Foundation Planting: Low, rounded habit fits near paths and windows.
• Mixed Conifers: Contrasts beautifully 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 evenly moist.
• Pruning: Minimal; light tip pruning after spring flush maintains outline and encourages fresh gold growth.
• 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: Protect from drying winds and hot afternoon sun; monitor for hemlock woolly adelgid and treat promptly if detected.

Why Choose Golden Duchess Canadian Hemlock?

• Bright Color: Golden flushes illuminate shaded plantings.
• Dwarf Habit: Compact, rounded form suits small spaces.
• Refined Texture: Soft needles and layered sprays read elegant year round.
• Shade Adapted: Thrives where many conifers prefer full sun.
• Low Upkeep: Slow, tidy growth needs only light seasonal care.

Site in dappled light with acidic, well drained soil, maintain steady moisture and a light mulch, and tip prune after the spring flush to keep plants dense and brightly colored.