Plants and People Project

Hemlock, Eastern - Tsuga candensis

The Ojibwe people use the needles as food source. How Indians Use Wild Plants for Food, Medicine and Crafts.

Pioneers made tea from the leafy twigs and brooms from the branches. Audubon Field Guide to Trees of the Eastern Region

Hemlock wood is used as a construction timber. Tannin, a chemical used in tanning skins, was harvested from hemlocks. PA DCNR

The bark was also used to create a blue dye for wool and cotton. Natural Dyes and Home Dyeing

Today Hemlocks are harvested to make pulp for paper. Smithsonian Institution - National Zoo

The hemlock is Pennsylvania's State Tree.

This tree is often planted for its ornamental value. It can serve as a wind break or privacy screen.

The seeds of the tree are food for wild turkey, ruffed grouse and other wildlife. Animals also use the trees for shelter and nesting sites to raise their young.

Cones on hemlock

Identification and other facts / More facts / Further Facts / Arbor Day facts

Hemlock

Hemlock Wooly Adelgid pdf

Gymnosperm families off site

What tree is it? off site

DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past. Be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.