Every winter, I find myself inspired to enhance my garden with evergreens, aiming to establish a strong backbone of plants that not only provide sanctuary for birds but also inject visual charm before the seasonal awakening of spring.
Yet, as the warmer days approach, my desire for vivid colors often leads me to grab pansies instead.
A few seasons ago, however, my gardening journey took a delightful turn when I stumbled upon a striking conifer with foliage reminiscent of minty white frosting.
This evergreen, which also happens to be a native species, reignited my commitment to gardening, compelling me to make the purchase.
Discovering ‘Moon Frost’
Enter ‘Moon Frost,’ a beautifully distinctive cultivar selected by the renowned Oregon horticulturist Ed Wood.
This variety of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) stands out for its eye-catching white tips in spring and its compact growth habit.
Initially, the fresh leaves emerge in tight clusters, gradually maturing into a soft green adorned with delicate white accents.
The needles lie flat along slender branches that surprise with their winter color—a soft blush of pink.
Although eastern hemlocks typically grow slowly, my ‘Moon Frost’ remained compact for its first three years, but it has recently started to stretch toward almost 4 feet, its airy branches dancing gracefully in the breeze.
Caring for ‘Moon Frost’
Some gardening literature suggests that eastern hemlocks may be somewhat deer-resistant, which I take to mean that deer might find them appealing.
To ensure my ‘Moon Frost’ thrives, I make it a point to shield it from drought, harsh winds, and the blazing summer sun.
This protective approach enhances its resilience and shields it from a significant threat: the infamous hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA).
These pests leave behind unsightly cotton-like sacs on the lower branches and undersides, particularly noticeable in spring and fall.
Should an outbreak occur, university extension specialists recommend using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, both of which I have found safe for home gardens.
To stay ahead of any potential issues, I apply a layer of shredded leaves around the base of my ‘Moon Frost’ hemlock to help retain moisture, and I diligently water during dry spells.
Thanks to these proactive measures, my plant has yet to show any signs of HWA.
Choosing the Right Location
I admit, I have planted some species in less-than-ideal spots, but I was intentional when choosing the location for my ‘Moon Frost.’ I nestled it into a foundation bed on the north side of my home, right next to a rain barrel equipped with a soaker hose.
This placement offers the hemlock some much-needed summer shade from a nearby pink pussy willow (Salix gracilistyla ‘Mt.
Aso’, suitable for Zones 4–8).
The late-winter blooms of the willow provide a delightful pop of color—a serendipitous yet unexpected treat.
Who needs pansies when you have this lovely combination?
- ‘Moon Frost’ Eastern Hemlock
- Tsuga canadensis ‘Moon Frost’
- Hardiness Zones: 4–7
- Preferred Conditions: Partial to full shade; well-drained, average to moist soil
- Native Range: North America
Kristin Green, a passionate horticulturist, resides in Bristol, Rhode Island, and continues her journey of exploring and nurturing the beauty of plants.
Source: Finegardening