Botanical profile

Tsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White'

Latin name
Tsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White'
Common name
Canadian hemlock 'Gentsch White'
Type
Coniferous
Family
Pinaceae

Tsuga canadensis ‘Gentsch White’ is a particularly ornamental dwarf Canadian hemlock, prized for its creamy white new growth that brightens its dark green foliage. This evergreen conifer develops a rounded, dense habit, typically wider than tall, forming a compact mass ideal for rockeries, conifer gardens, and shaded borders. In spring, the light new shoots create a striking contrast, giving the impression of a light frost on the plant. Its slow growth allows it to maintain a regular structure without frequent pruning. Very hardy, Tsuga canadensis ‘Gentsch White’ prefers cool, slightly acidic, well-drained soil, and partial shade to preserve the quality of its foliage. It is an excellent choice for adding texture and brightness to Nordic landscapes.

Plant information
Plant
identification
Common nameCanadian hemlock 'Gentsch White'
Latin nameTsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White'
FamilyPinaceae
TypeConiferous
Plant
description

Tsuga canadensis ‘Gentsch White’ is a particularly ornamental dwarf Canadian hemlock, prized for its creamy white new growth that brightens its dark green foliage. This evergreen conifer develops a rounded, dense habit, typically wider than tall, forming a compact mass ideal for rockeries, conifer gardens, and shaded borders. In spring, the light new shoots create a striking contrast, giving the impression of a light frost on the plant. Its slow growth allows it to maintain a regular structure without frequent pruning. Very hardy, Tsuga canadensis ‘Gentsch White’ prefers cool, slightly acidic, well-drained soil, and partial shade to preserve the quality of its foliage. It is an excellent choice for adding texture and brightness to Nordic landscapes.

Soil
and care
ExposureSun to partial shade
Soil
Acidic to slightly acidic, cool and well-drained
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer in spring. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Not recommended – use Bionik rooter or bone meal.
Appearance,
season
and garden
Bloom period
Not significant
Flower colorNon-ornamental
Foliage colorDark green with creamy white shoots
Habit / shape
Dwarf
Fruiting
Small, discrete light brown cones
Wildlife appealFALSE
Size
and facts
Height1.5 to 2 m (5 to 7 feet)
Spread1.5 m (5 feet)
Growth rateslow
Hardiness zoneZone 3
Minimum temperature'-34°C
Foliage typePersistent
PetsPet friendly
Plant availability varies with new arrivals, the seasons, nursery production and supplier inventory. Trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and indoor plants may be offered for a limited time depending on their natural cycle and available stock. These pages are designed to guide and inspire your choices for the garden, landscaping, containers and indoor growing.
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets