Western Hemlock is the most shade-tolerant conifer in the Pacific Northwest and a dominant tree of old-growth rainforests from northern California to Alaska. It is the state tree of Washington. Its small cones are produced abundantly and provide important seeds for crossbills and siskins. Marbled murrelets nest on its broad, old-growth branches.
Best time to see a Western Hemlock
The best time to see a Western Hemlock is February–July, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 11,594 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Western Hemlock? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Western Hemlock sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Western Hemlock? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Western Hemlock is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love plants? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.