Continuing our walk in the forest, let’s make the acquaintance of another neighbor, the Western Hemlock.
We’ll consider:
- Distinguishing Characteristics: How do they usually look?
- Norms and Maxes: Let’s be real, these trees are big. Like, big-big. Up to 150-200 feet tall in their bare feet (roots) and 20 feet around. I expect none of us here have a measuring tape long enough to confirm the exact details, but we’ll look at a few of the more interesting stats.
- Likes, Dislikes: Enjoys moody, rainy days? Or more of a sunny beach lover? Trees have preferences that can help you identify them in their element.
- Photos: I like taking pictures of my own stately neighbors, so I will inflict a few on you in the name of education. Honestly, it helps to have examples.
- Not to be Confused with: No one likes to be mistaken for someone else, and giving your neighbor Marilyn a big hug with an exclamation of “Trish!” is beyond mortifying. Let’s get to know our plants well enough to avoid any awkward faux pas.
- Resources for Learning More: Because once you recognize your neighbors, you’ll want to get to know them even better.
Getting to know the trees around you is a walk in the park forest. Let’s go.
Western Hemlock
See that shaggy guy over there? He always confuses me – do I know him?, have we met before? He looks so familiar, but who is he?
Then I notice the silhouette of his bowed head and remember: this is the Western Hemlock.
Distinguishing looks: Shaggy, bowed head.
- The new growth at the top of the tree consistently and noticeably droops.
Norm and Max:
- Commonly 160-200 feet tall, with 9 feet diameter.
- Known to grow up to 270 feet tall.
Likes & Dislikes:
- Likes moist soil – but not wet please
- Not picky about sunshine: full sun to full shade is a-okay.
Nicknames / AKA:
- Official State Tree of Washington
Not to be confused with:
- Mountain Hemlock
- Pacific Yew
Great Resources: