Hemlock-Tsuga canadensis

Something to Ponder:

With just the name there seems to be one big misunderstanding about this coniferous tree. It was the plant that was mixed into Socrates’ tea rather than the tree. While the Hemlock plant is very poisonous, the Hemlock tree is quite the opposite.

The Hemlock tree is one of the most valuable trees in North America. It is a foundational species primarily found in the northeastern part of the United States and they play a critical role in establishing the ecological community around us. They grow in massive waves across the mountains and stand tall and green 365 days a year. The green branches and brown bark supply food during the winter to several animals and many birds make their home in the upper canopy. In addition, these trees trap carbon dioxide providing cleaner air, and they do it for a long time as Hemlocks can live as long as 800 years.

But the most important benefit a Hemlock provides is shade. In a Hemlock forest, snow rarely gets to the ground and experts indicated that only 1% of sunlight makes it to the forest floor. Water is filtered and kept cool for streams that run through the forest. Even the branches and needles feather downward to help create a quiet and cool place for hikers and wildlife.

Do you have such a place in your life? A refuge where you can turn down the noise to focus on the priorities of your life? Or maybe just to lay down a burden or listen to a “still small voice”? In the heat of summer or the depth of winter you can stand on dry ground in and among the Hemlock trees and simply and quietly give thanks to God for such a place.

Learn More:

Hemlock-Tsuga canadensis, also known as Canadian Hemlock, is a coniferous tree native to eastern North America. Canadian Hemlock has one of the smallest cones of the conifers. Its striking combination of new bright green and old dark green needles and lacy form make it a notable and welcome site in the winter landscape. It is also tolerant of more shaded areas. It is the state tree of Pennsylvania. The Iroquois used the needles to make tea and Native Americans used the bark for weaving baskets. Hemlock can survive from 400-800 years in the wild.