Trees of the Pacific Northwest (Part 2, Western Hemlock​)

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:

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

error: Content is protected.