Discover the majestic Tsuga mertensiana, commonly known as Mountain Hemlock, a coniferous evergreen that transforms landscapes with its striking presence. This medium-sized tree boasts dense, bottle-brush foliage in shades of greenish-blue to silver-green, crowned by a conical or pyramidal shape. Reaching heights of 30 to 100 feet—or even 175 feet in rare cases—it's a testament to nature's grandeur. With its grayish-black to reddish-brown, fissured bark, and purple cones that mature into grayish-brown, it captivates with its beauty year-round.
Native to the rugged terrains of Alaska, British Columbia, and the mountainous regions of Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada, the Mountain Hemlock thrives in high-altitude, cold climates. Its flexibility under heavy snow and its resilience over centuries, living between 500 to 1400 years, make it a symbol of endurance. Perfect for regions with short growing seasons and cool summers, this tree is a haven for wildlife—providing food and shelter for squirrels and grouse. While not suited for the southeastern U.S. due to its heat intolerance, it thrives in full sun and moist, cool summers. Young trees can even be pruned into hedges, adding versatility to its allure.