Carolina Hemlock
Tsuga caroliniana
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Pl. A0CD — Tsuga caroliniana
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IOverview
Overview
Carolina Hemlock (Tsuga caroliniana) is a native evergreen tree found in the southeastern United States, specifically in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. This tree thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 4.2 to 5.9, and prefers partial sun to full shade. Growing up to 15 meters tall, it is a slow-growing, single-stemmed tree that can be an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes in USDA hardiness zones 4-7. The Carolina Hemlock is known for its ornamental value and edible parts, with the inner bark and shoots being useful for making tea. Its adaptability to various soil types and its ability to tolerate partial shade make it a versatile choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, attractive tree. While not medicinal, it can be a valuable resource for those interested in foraging and sustainable living.
Quick answers
What is Carolina Hemlock?
Carolina Hemlock (Tsuga caroliniana) is a native evergreen tree found in the southeastern United States, specifically in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. This tree thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 4.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Carolina Hemlock thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 4.2 and 5.9. It can tolerate light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Hardy in zones 4-7, this tree grows up to 15 meters tall. For propagation, use inner bark or shoots. Ensure the planting site is suitable for its partial to full shade requirements and moist soil conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-7
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.2–5.9
For first-time growers
How to grow Carolina Hemlock for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Carolina Hemlock to experience growing a tree from a young plant.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Carolina Hemlock sapling, well-draining soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil has a pH between 4.2–5.9 and is well-draining but moist.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the ground, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist during this critical period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased parts.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Inner barkShoots
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:DyeHedgerowResinRustTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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