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Great Plant Pick: Tsuga canadensis “Cole’s Prostrate,” prostrate Canadian hemlock

Published 1:30 am Friday, November 27, 2020

By Richie Steffen

Prostrate Canadian hemlock is a year-round evergreen with bright green new growth in the spring. (Richie Steffen)
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Prostrate Canadian hemlock is a year-round evergreen with bright green new growth in the spring. (Richie Steffen)
Prostrate Canadian hemlock is a year-round evergreen with bright green new growth in the spring. (Richie Steffen)

What: Tsuga canadensis “Cole’s Prostrate” is a dwarf prostrate conifer that fits well into the smaller garden, in a rock or alpine garden, or especially to provide evergreen effect. This enduring cultivar, with beautiful soft, green needles, spreads outward from 2- to 4-feet wide and about 1 foot tall in 10 years. As the plant matures, branches in the center may be exposed, showing the beautiful silvery bark.

Where: An ideal location is one with light shade, preferably morning sun and protection from the hot afternoon sun. Open shade is also quite acceptable. Grow in average to rich, but well-drained soil.

Size: This Canadian hemlock grows to be 2 feet tall and spreading to 7-feet wide when mature.

Care: Water this conifer regularly during dry periods.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks

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