Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Tsuga mertensiana 'Elizabeth'
Elizabeth Mountain Hemlock
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Height
- 4 ft to 6 ft
- Width
- 3 ft to 5 ft
- Flower color
- Purplish spring cones maturing to reddish brown seed cones
- Foliage color
- Silvery blue green needles
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune selectively only as needed to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 7
- Wildlife
- Songbirds and small mammals feed on seeds with branches providing shelter and nesting sites
About this plant
Tsuga mertensiana 'Elizabeth' features short, blue-green needles arranged densely around the branches, creating a soft evergreen canopy with a refined texture that remains attractive throughout the year. The foliage develops subtle silvery tones that enhance the layered branching, while fresh spring growth emerges with lighter hues that add depth and seasonal contrast. Small purplish female cones and yellow pollen cones appear in spring, bringing understated ornamental interest and emphasizing the plant's alpine character.
Originating from a species native to the mountainous regions of western North America, this cultivar was selected for its compact habit and ornamental appeal. It is well suited to rock gardens, conifer collections, woodland settings, and mixed borders, where its evergreen structure and fine texture provide year-round interest.
Companion plants
Catmint · Caryopteris · Sea holly · Rock rose · Penstemon · Blue fescue
Design tip
Echo ‘Elizabeth’s’ alpine character by using it where changes in grade, exposed stone, or other rugged landscape features provide a natural setting. Its compact form and silvery blue-green foliage bring year-round definition without overwhelming a smaller-scale composition.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at The Oregon Garden.
