Fir vs. Hemlock

Fir and hemlock are types of evergreen trees that belong to the pine family. There are 45 to 55 species of fir that are native to North and Central America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Out of 10 known species of hemlock, four can be found in North America, while others grow in Asia. Fir grows on the sunny spots in the mountains with mild or cool humid climate. Hemlock grows in cool and moist climates, in areas that have cool summers and plenty of rainfalls. Unlike other conifers, hemlock tolerates shade. Even though fir and hemlock are members of the same family, they can be easily differentiated thanks to the following features:

Size

Hemlock is usually smaller than fir, with few exceptions. It can reach 33 to 197 feet in height (50 to 100 on average), while fir can reach height of 32 to 262 feet (100 to 150 on average).

Needles

Hemlock has narrow, flat needles that are usually only one inch long. They are completely green or covered with white bands in some species. Needles are spirally arranged on the twigs and attached to them via raised, rounded pegs. Fir has longer (3 inches on average) and more flat needles compared with hemlock. Upper surface of needles is usually green and shiny, while bottom side is covered with whitish stomata arranged in two rows. Some species of fir have greenish-grey, bluish-green or silver needles. They are attached to the twigs directly (base of a needle looks like a small suction cup). Twigs of fir have visible depressions that remain after removal of needles.

Cones

Fir produces erect, cylindrical cones, that can reach 2 to 9 inches in length. Mature cones are brown colored. They disintegrate completely during the process of seed release. Hemlock produces small ovoid, roundish or ellipsoid cones that are usually 1 to 3 inches long. Unlike cones of fir, they hang from the branches. Hemlock discards its cones as soon as they release seed.

Application

Both hemlock and fir are cultivated in the form of windbreaks, screens, hedges and in ornamental purposes. Wood of fir is used for the manufacture of plywood. It is not used in timber industry because it has low resistance to insects and it decays easily. Some species of fir are popular as Christmas trees because of their aromatic and long-lasting needles. Talispatra is a species of fir that is used in treatment of cough in India. Hemlock wood is used for the manufacture of paper. Bark of hemlock is rich in tannins and it can be used for tanning of leather. Needles of hemlock are consumed in the form of tea in some areas. Essential oils obtained from black hemlock are used in the perfume industry.