SoftwoodDurability class 5

Western Hemlock

Tsuga heterophylla

Heartwood light reddish brown; sapwood similar/slightly lighter; occasional dark streaks can occur.

Western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) is a North American softwood used widely for construction lumber, interior joinery, mouldings, and pulp. It’s generally straight-grained and easy to work, but has low natural durability and benefits from treatment or protection in exposed conditions.

About this data — sources, methodology & acknowledgements →Data last updated: 23 May 2026