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.
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View of above side. Top: Yew. Bottom: Hemlock
Photo Credit: Rosie Lerner, HLA 
View of Underside. Top: Yew. Bottom: Hemlock
Photo Credit: Rosie Lerner, HLA Yew has a slightly longer and wider needle -about 1/2 - 1 1/4" long, dark green above and light green below, overall coarser texture compared to hemlock. Cones look like berries, the brown seeds are covered by a fleshy red aril (seedcoat).
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Hemlock Cones
Photo Credit: Purdue Arboretum 
Yew Cones
Photo Credit: Purdue Arboretum When submitting samples use this guide when sending the PPDL photos of your tree.
