picture of the week
January 3, 2022
Distinguishing Hemlock from Yew
Rosie Lerner-retired, Extension Consumer Horticulture Specialist, Purdue University
It is easy to confuse Hemlock (Tsuga spp.) and Yew (Taxus spp.) unless you can see the overall plant habit or have them both side by side. Further confusing them is that both species may be pruned into hedges or other shapes that obscure the natural plant habits.
Hemlock has short needles, 1/4 - 3/4" long, green above and distinctly whitish silver below due to prominent white stomatal bands. Cones are 1/2 - 1" long, ovoid, and pendulous.