WSU Clark County Extension
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Gentsch White Hemlock

Scientific name: Tsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White'
Taxonomy
Family:Pinaceae
Type:Dwarf conifers
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:4 to 8
Sun:Partial shade
Plant Characteristics
Height:5 ft
Width:5 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description This is a fascinating mutation of Canadian Hemlock that sports creamy-white new growth which contrasts well with the mature green growth. This shrub appears to be covered in snow!

  Morphology:
This is a dwarf conifer that grows to 5’ in height and width after 10 years. While it can be sheared as a globose evergreen to 4’ tall and 4’ wide, it can also be allowed to enlarge to a larger size. Needles are ½” long and have two whitish bands of stomata underneath. The full extent of the white foliage occurs in the fall as the days shorten. Spring shearing will bring out a fresh new crop of white needles.

  Adaptation:
The ideal site for this special plant would be one that is partially shaded with moist acidic soils. If it is planted on a hot site one can expect foliage burn.

  Pests:
Pest free in the Pacific Northwest.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
Computing and Web Resources, PO Box 6234, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6234