Trunk diameter 3 feet to 4 feet. Distribution on the Pacific Coast from Alaska south, throughout western Canada into central California, east to Idaho and Montana. This species, western hemlock, grows exclusively in the northwest and is one of the most important timber trees of that region. Because it tolerates deep shade exceptionally well, hemlock can grow to maturity in the thickest, deepest forest. Sprouting from living stumps, it replaces itself easily and can replace other species nearly as easily, eventually dominating the forest.
Western hemlock is a stately, graceful and handsome tree.
Tall and straight, it commonly forces itself up through the existing forest canopy. The wood is a pleasing off-white, tinged with pale purple, with small, sound, black knots. Although a lightweight softwood, it is very strong, stiff and shock resistant. The grain is straight, fine textured, free of pitch and works like pine. It dries well by air seasoning or kiln drying.