Eastern Hemlock – Tsuga Canadensis

The Eastern Hemlock, Tsuga Canadensis, is considered a rare species in Minnesota and Wisconsin. One reason for this is the vast amount of white-tailed deer in these regions. The Eastern Hemlock is a favorite food source during the winter for the deer, making it hard to sustain a high population of this tree species. The harsh winters present in Wisconsin and Minnesota are also thought to be a limiting factor.

This tree is considered to be quite large, reaching a maximum height of 100 feet and average diameter of 24 inches. Its bark is grayish brown that starts off scaly when the tree is young and becomes more deeply furrowed as the tree matures. The needles are smooth and flat and about a half inch long. You will find this tree in mixed hardwood-conifer forests and mesic hardwood forests. Other species that are frequently found in this area are the Yellow Birch, White Pine, and White spruce. These forest types contain well-drained soils and are common in areas with steep slopes and ravines that are sheltered with cool temperatures.

– Kate Handberg, GIS Manager