Tsuga heterophylla Thorsen's Weeping - Western Hemlock

Tsuga heterophylla 'Thorsen's Weeping' is an adorable dwarf form of the Western Hemlock, an exceptional ornamental plant with trailing branches that can be shaped according to one's desires. When staked, this conifer will form a lovely, very green fountain, while it will spread as a ground cover if left to its own devices. With its evergreen foliage, it remains decorative all year round.

Tsuga heterophylla 'Thorsen's Weeping' is a horticultural variety selected by breeder Thorsen (USA) for its small size and naturally prostrate or trailing branches. The Western Hemlock, also known as California Hemlock, Western Hemlock or New World Hemlock, is a species of evergreen conifer belonging to the Pinaceae family. Its natural distribution extends along the west coast of North America. It is found from Alaska to California, in temperate rainforests located within 100 kilometres of the west coast. It was introduced to Europe in 1851. It is cultivated in the western part of Europe for its wood, but in central Europe, it succumbs to severe cold and is only planted for ornamental purposes in parks.

The 'Thorsen's Weeper' Western Hemlock plant has a prostrate habit with secondary branches that hang down towards the ground. When staked, the plant takes on a narrow, cascading shape, with branches extending like a train on the ground. The young branches are yellowish, becoming grey over time. The foliage is dense, composed of light green soft needles with silver highlights in spring, turning dark green in summer. The growth rate of this variety is moderate, about 7.5 to 15 cm per year. Its dimensions depend on how it is trained. At the age of 10, a staked plant will measure 1.5 to 2 m in height with a width of 1.5 m. This hemlock does not produce decorative flowers, but its cones, although discreet, bring a touch of authenticity. The bark is brownish and relatively smooth.

Thriving in partial shade, Tsuga heterophylla 'Thorsen's Weeping' also appreciates moist soils. This variety is perfect for Japanese gardens, rockeries or as a ground cover. Carefully staked, this small conifer will make a big impact in the centre of a dedicated bed. To accompany it, choose other dwarf conifers with a ball-like, prostrate, or narrow columnar habit. A carpet of Japanese forest grass will soften this plant scene.