Tsuga caroliniana aka Carolina Hemlock

Tsuga caroliniana, or Carolina hemlock, is an evergreen tree in the pine family. It comes from the southern Appalachian Mountains, from Virginia to Georgia. Its range also includes Tennessee and the Carolinas. Wild trees grow on rocky slopes, ridges, cliffs, and stream banks. Garden trees reach 40–60 feet [12.2–18.3 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 20–25 feet [6.1–7.6 metres]. Reports span 30–70 feet [9.1–21.3 metres], with wild trees exceeding 100 feet [30.5 metres].

The tree grows slowly and forms a narrow pyramid. Strong branches extend sideways, with tips that may droop. Young shoots have fine hairs and reddish to orange-brown tones. Small, round buds sit along the shoots. Age brings deep cracks and scaly ridges to reddish-brown bark. The short, flat needles spread around the stems. Their upper sides are dark green and glossy. Two white bands mark each needle's underside. Crushed needles give off a scent like tangerines. The foliage stays green through winter without fall color.

This conifer makes cones rather than true flowers or fleshy fruit. Small male and female structures occur on the same tree. Seed cones start green and turn brown as they mature. Their narrow scales spread wide as the cones open. Birds eat the seeds, and the tree draws songbirds. Its dense foliage also gives wildlife cover. Gardeners use it as a specimen, screen, or hedge. Small groups suit woodland gardens and shaded slopes. The evergreen form adds structure to gardens in winter.

Cool sites with moist soil and good drainage suit it best. Partial shade is a useful choice, though it tolerates deep shade. Some sources also allow full sun in suitable sites. Keep it sheltered from strong winds and harsh heat. Dry spells call for watering, since drought can harm it. Sources place hardiness in USDA zones 6–7; UConn also lists zone 5. Hemlock woolly adelgid can kill trees if left unchecked. Mites, borers, and other insects may also attack. Diseases reported for hemlocks include needle blight, canker, rust, and rot. Deer may eat the foliage or damage the bark.

Cherokee people used this tree for medicine, baskets, and building materials. Recorded food uses include inner bark and young shoots. Shoot tips can make tea, while ground inner bark can thicken food. These records describe uses, not proven health benefits. PFAF reports no known hazards. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.