February- Hemlock Tree

A wise friend, found in our woodlands

Hemlock is a native coniferous evergreen with needles and cones. It is a slow growing softwood, reaching up to 30 metres and living many hundreds of years. Its branches grow straight out from the trunk bearing loose feathery, shiny needles whose tips droop gracefully at the end.

It is an important tree species as it provides shelter and habitat for wildlife, and offers cooling shade for plants and streams. Hemlock is shade tolerant and grows best in moist soils.

Commercially, Hemlock is used for construction, furniture, pulp etc. and the bark tannins are used as a stain to colour wool and textiles.

Medicinally, Hemlock aids digestive disorders and diseases of the throat and mouth.

Our "Rooted" Farm has approximately 3 acres of woodland.  As you walk into it, you are greeted by the elegant Hemlocks. They stand majestic and resilient as a symbol of endurance, protection and healing, reminding us of a wise Grandmother Elder, grounding and teaching us to embrace change with grace.