Tsuga ulleungensis


Michael's Opinion

The Tsuga has a beautiful irregular canopy that brings interest to the natural landscape of the island of Ulleundgo. The uniqueness of its form brings a more rugged and untamed look to the Tsuga genus. Its moderate size for a hemlock allows for potential landscape use.

Botanical Information

FamilyPinaceae
GenusTsuga
Speciesulleungensis
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen)
OriginThis rare tree is considered an endangered species due to its restricted range. Tsuga ulleungensis is a relatively new species of the genus Tsuga. The tree was discovered in Ulleungo, South Korea, while trying to find out why Eastern species that would have greater resistance to the Hemlock Woolly adelgid. The insect spread to North America, causing destruction due to the lack of predators’ present. It was officially classified in 2017 by team lead Garth Holman, a research associate at the University of Maine. When initially discovered the Tsuga ulleungensis was thought to be a disjunction population, however the two species where genetically dissimilar; much like it’s close relative Tsuga sieboldii.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone6 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone7a - 9b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)(-23) - (-18)
Temperature (°F)(-10) - 0
Height22 - 30 m
Spread4 - 8 m
GrowthSlow

Description and Growing Information

ID CharacteristicTsuga ulleungensis is an evergreen conifer characterised by its distinct wavy margins to its’ cone scale bracts. It can also be identified by their reddish-brown cones and the white bands on either side of the mid rib.
ShapeThe plants shape is broad, upright and irregular.
LandscapeHemlocks are typically used for lumber, however, the Tsuga ulleungesis trees are used as wildlife habitat due to scarcity. Due to their rare nature, these trees have been used as specimen plants as well.
PropagationDue to low seed production, natural methods of seed production are not used. Vitro propagation and cryopreservation through somatic embryogenesis has been implemented by researchers.
CultivationTsuga ulleungensis is grown naturally on very acidic volcanic soils in the wild. Most Hemlocks in the genus prefer acidic soil, with a pH of 7.0 or lower and well draining soils. From their location on the south facing side of the mountains of Ulleungdo, one can infer that they can tolerate and do well in harsher light.
PestsHemlock woolly adelgid often infects the Tsuga ulleungensis however the insects are managed using natural pests. Not a major concern if predatory insects are in healthy numbers.
Notable SpecimensOne notable specimen is at the Morris Arboretum in Philadelphia, United States of America. Another well known specimen is the 30 m tall mature tree that resides in the protected reseve of Namseo, Taeha Reyeong in Ulleungdo, South Korea.
HabitatTsuga ulleundgensis is found in acidic, well draining moist areas. Also found on North facing slopes on rocky ridges on elevations of approximately 300- 500 m above sea level. Located in forests usually dominated by the Japanese White Pine.
Bark/Stem DescriptionThe bark/stem is smooth and measures in 1-1.5mm in diameter.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionThe flower/leaf bus is globular or obovoid shape.
Leaf DescriptionThe measurements are 10-15mm long linear leaves, with 1.0mm-1.5mm petioles, approximately 1-1.5mm thick in diameter, attenuate bases with slightly thickened margins. Needles have two broad white bands on each side of the midrib. Bands typically include 8 stomata gradually decreasing to 2-3 proximally and 4-5 distally. Includes one resin canal measuring approximately 0.5mm in diameter at the midpoint of the leaf.
Fruit DescriptionPollen cones are a burgundy colour measuring 0.5-1.0 mm and the juvenile seeds are purple. Bracts are wider than long with crenulate margins. Mature seeds are globular to ovoid in shape. Each cone contains 20-26 seeds.
Colour DescriptionThe plant remains a stunning dark green colour throughout the year.

Photographs