hemlocks

Hemlocks commonly refer to evergreen trees of the genus Tsuga in the pine family, Pinaceae. They are native to Asia and North America and are valued for their soft needles, shade tolerance, and adaptable growth. The most widespread species are Tsuga canadensis, the Eastern hemlock; Tsuga heterophylla, the Western hemlock; and Tsuga sieboldii, the Japanese hemlock. Hemlocks are typically medium-sized to large trees with flat, simple needles and small woody cones. They prefer cool, moist, shaded forests and are often found in mountainous or coastal regions. In forestry and landscape use, they provide timber and ornamental appeal and contribute to forest structure and biodiversity. Ecologically, they support a variety of understory plants and wildlife. In some regions, hemlocks face threats from theintroduced hemlock woolly adelgid, an insect that can cause rapid tree decline, as well as from drought and climate change.

Poison hemlock, Conium maculatum, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae. It is highly toxic due to alkaloids such as coniine and gamma-coniceine, which affect the nervous system. Poison hemlock grows in damp, disturbed habitats such as roadsides, wetlands, and fields. It can be mistaken for edible members of the carrot family, making it a serious poison risk, especially to foragers and children. Historically, it has been used as a poison in ancient times and is often cited in literature for such uses. Caution is advised to avoid contact or ingestion.