Is eastern hemlock a good tree?
As a native species, the tree attracts moths, small mammals, and songbirds. Ecologically, the Eastern Hemlock is a vital life source for its community. Mature trees represent keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in the health of their ecosystem. Eastern Hemlock provides valuable wildlife food and winter shelter. Many species of wildlife benefit from the excellent habitat that a dense stand of hemlock provides. The dense, low branches of young trees provide winter cover for ruffed grouse, wild turkey, and other wildlife.Eastern Hemlock does not tolerate wet soils, nor prolonged drought. Strongly windswept areas and air polluted sites should be avoided. It generally performs best in partial sun to partial shade, and is found in zones 3 to 7.
What is eastern hemlock used for?
The wood has been used for light framing, roofing, boxes and crates, and pulping, but it tends to be brittle and eastern hemlock is not presently important as a timber tree. Commercial stands have been greatly reduced by prior harvesting and lack of restocking. Hemlock is a softwood that can be ideal for a range of products and projects.The wood has been used for light framing, roofing, boxes and crates, and pulping, but it tends to be brittle and eastern hemlock is not presently important as a timber tree. Commercial stands have been greatly reduced by prior harvesting and lack of restocking.As with a lot of the softer woods, hemlock dries quickly but also can hold onto moisture if laying on the ground or in a damp or unventilated area. It pops and sparks as it burns, which can be a hazard, but also nice for ambiance if you want a nice crackling fire. This makes it good for fireplaces and outdoor fires.Hemlock is considered a much stronger wood with the ability to resist decay. It is tougher than cedar and fir, especially when pests attack it.Hemlock, often more easily available as a less expensive wood option, is preferred over pine in regions where it is easily accessible. Its pricing may vary based on the specific type and local availability (imported wood may cost more).
Is eastern hemlock poisonous?
Although sometimes confused (in name) with Poison Hemlock, Eastern Hemlock is not toxic to humans and makes a delicious, Vitamin C-rich tea. The Eastern Hemlock is the official state tree of Pennsylvania. Poison hemlock often has a bad smell described as like mouse urine or musty. The naturally occurring poisons, most notably coniine, are in all parts of the plant. Poison hemlock belongs to the same plant family (Apiaceae) as carrots, parsnips, fennel, and dill.Eastern hemlock is edible for humans, despite the name — it’s not related to poisonous hemlock — it is, however, toxic to dogs and cats. The needles can be used to make a tea that is high in vitamin C. Can grow up to 70 feet in height. Identifiable by two white stomata lines found under the flat needles.Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) is a highly toxic plant that’s a member of the carrot family. It’s commonly mistaken for wild carrot, wild parsnip or wild parsley. This can lead you to accidentally eat it (ingestion). Every part of the hemlock plant is poisonous, including the seeds, root, stem, leaves and fruit.While looking at the plants or touching them is generally not hazardous, all parts of poison hemlock are toxic if ingested by humans and it is infamously known as the form of death chosen by Socrates. It is also highly toxic to livestock and wildlife.
What is special about hemlock trees?
Hemlocks are shade loving and their lower branches can live for a long time, making them the perfect trees for finding or building shelters made of sticks and leaves. A mature hemlock creates such dense shade, and its needles cause the soil to be so acidic, that few other plants can grow underneath. Indoor Hemlocks thrive in bright, indirect light. While they can tolerate lower light levels, this may hinder their growth and overall health.