Other Names:  Canadian Hemlock, Eastern Hemlock

Description:

A miniature variety with a globe shape and very fine textured foliage; best used as a solitary specimen in a small space; needs organic, acidic soil, adequate moisture and shelter from drying winds

Ornamental Features

Abbott's Pygmy Hemlock is a dwarf conifer which is primarily valued in the garden for its ornamental globe-shaped form. It has dark green evergreen foliage which emerges light green in spring. The tiny needles remain dark green throughout the winter.

Landscape Attributes

Abbott's Pygmy Hemlock is a multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a more or less rounded form. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which should be used to full effect.

This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Insects

Abbott's Pygmy Hemlock is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Abbott's Pygmy Hemlock will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 18 inches. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils. It is quite intolerant of urban pollution, therefore inner city or urban streetside plantings are best avoided, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selection of a native North American species.