Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)
THE TREE Natural Range Canada: Maritimes to western Ontario; U.S.: east of the Mississippi River Stature Grows to 100 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. THE WOOD Appearance Heartwood is pale brown with a red cast. Sapwood generally blends with the heartwood, though it may be somewhat lighter in color. Texture is coarse and uneven. Grain is moderately pronounced. Weight 28 lbs/ft3 @ 12% moisture content Hardness 500 lbf (kiln-dried) Workability Splits and splinters easily in manufacturing, holds nails only fairly well. Easy to glue and takes paint well. Durability Dings and mars very easily; not resistant to decay.
Data: Alden, Harry A., Softwoods of North America (Madison, WI: U.S.D.A. Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory), 1997. Photography © Virginia Polytechnic Institute, U.S. Forest Service