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Key characteristics

Family: Pinaceae
Height: 2 ft to 3 ft
Width: 3 ft to 4 ft
Flower color: Yellow pollen cones with small brown seed cones
Foliage color: Dark green needles with a soft feathery texture and dense mounded habit
Bloom time: Spring
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; prune selectively only as needed to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 7
Wildlife: Songbirds and small mammals feed on seeds with branches providing shelter

Shrubs

Tsuga canadensis 'Horsford Dwarf'

Horsford Dwarf Eastern Hemlock

Tsuga canadensis 'Horsford Dwarf' features soft, dark green needles arranged densely along gracefully layered branches. The foliage has a delicate appearance and develops lighter green new growth in spring, adding depth and subtle contrast to the plant. Small purplish female cones and inconspicuous yellow pollen cones appear in spring, bringing understated seasonal interest among the needles. The intricate branching and persistent foliage contribute texture and structure throughout the seasons.

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Find this plant

Companion plants

Skimmia · Japanese forest grass · Epimedium · Pieris · Trillium · Foamflower

Design tip

Emphasize ‘Horsford Dwarf’s’ naturally layered branching by setting it against simpler forms where its intricate structure remains visible. The soft, feathery needles and lighter spring growth give this compact evergreen enough detail to hold attention throughout the year.