Hemlock, Eastern

Eastern hemlock can be grown in protected locations across Nebraska, but is best suited to the eastern half of the state where soil moisture is more consistent and abrupt temperature swings are less severe. Best sited in part shade in sheltered locations protected from strong drying winds and hot afternoon sun. Hemlock’s graceful form makes it a good foundation planting against larger homes and buildings. Eastern hemlock generally does not tolerate nutrient-poor soils, heavy/wet soils or poorly drained sites. It is also not tolerant of prolonged heat or drought. Suitable to plant east of the 100th meridian.

Eastern hemlock stands are considered important as shelter and cover for white-tailed deer and other wildlife species, such as turkey, ruffed grouse, and others.

The lumber is used for general construction and crates. Because of its unusual power of holding spikes, it is also used for railroad ties. 

Hemlock is susceptible to winter burn and wind-throw when planted on open sites. Although the tree can live for centuries in native woods, it is becoming decimated by the Hemlock woolly adelgid in the southern part of its range.  The adelgid is a small, white, sap-sucking insect native to Japan.  Numerous cultivars of Eastern hemlock have been developed, including compact shrubs, dwarfs, weeping and upright types, variegated in color, and graceful trees. The tree can be used as a specimen, screen, or in group planting. It can be pruned over time into a formal evergreen hedge. 

Although there are other hemlock species in North America and also in Asia, they’re not considered suitable for planting in Nebraska. 

American Indians used the cambium as the base for bread and soups or mixed it with dried fruit and animal fat for pemmican. Natives and white settlers also made tea from hemlock leaves, which have a high vitamin C content.