Southern japanese hemlock - Tsuga sieboldii (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Southern japanese hemlock

Also known as: Japanese hemlock

Southern japanese hemlock is a conifer originally native to Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Yakushima in Japan, and the South Korean island of Ulleungdo. Gardeners in Europe and North America can grow it in warmer areas, and it has been enjoyed as an ornamental tree in these parts since 1861.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern japanese hemlock (Tsuga sieboldii)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

30 m

Plant Height

Green

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Red, Purple

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Southern japanese hemlock

Distribution of Southern japanese hemlock

Distribution Map

Southern japanese hemlock is an evergreen conifer native to the temperate regions of East Asia. Its natural range is primarily within these regions' dense forest ecosystems. Beyond its native habitat, southern japanese hemlock has been introduced to temperate areas worldwide, where it is valued in botanical gardens and as cultivated ornamental trees in parks and larger gardens.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Quickly Identify Southern japanese hemlock

Substantial trunks with multiple stems up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide.

Needle-like foliage, loose, flattened, grooved leaves measuring 0.3-0.5 inches (0.76-1.27 cm).

Distinct male and female flowers: small, cherry-red male flowers; larger purple oval female flowers.

Sessile seed cones start green, ripening to pale brown, while pollen cones are clustered, rich reddish-brown turning yellow.

Textured gray-brown bark with quadrangular plates and delicate, tiered branching pattern.

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Care Guide for Southern japanese hemlock

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Southern japanese hemlock thrives in humid, cool conditions and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water every 1-2 weeks, and mulch to retain moisture, especially during the active growth season. Grown outdoors due to preference for size and habitat.

Fertilize: Southern japanese hemlock benefits from balanced fertilizer applied in spring and late summer. A slow-release type promotes steady nutrient supply, preventing root burn. Seasonal adjustments align with southern japanese hemlock's growth phases. Proper distribution and adherence to label rates enhance vigor and resilience, supporting a healthy southern japanese hemlock.

Pruning: Southern japanese hemlock features weeping branches and evergreen leaves, benefiting from regular pruning. Key techniques involve thinning dense branches for air circulation and shape. Prune from early to late winter to reduce stress, focusing on removing dead wood. Sterilized tools are essential to prevent disease.

Propagation: Native to Japan, southern japanese hemlock propagates mainly via semi-hardwood cuttings. Use healthy cuttings with rooting hormone in well-draining soil, maintaining moisture. Indirect light and moderate temperatures are ideal for rooting. Gradually acclimate young plants before transplanting to a permanent site.

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