This evergreen plant can be found throughout the eastern half of North America. When you can identify it, please leave a comment with the common name, scientific name and a note about any personal connection or story you have with this plant.
Young tree
Branches
Top view of branch, leaves and cones
Close view of top of branch and leaves
Under side of branch and leaves
Close view of under side of branch and leaves
Cones
Mature tree
Bark
ANSWER (subsequently added to this post to facilitate the “search” function for these images): Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)
Eastern hemlock or Canadian hemlock, Tsuga canadensis has needles with 2 distinct bands on the bottom and shiny green tops. The seed cones are oval and similar to the western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) the needles are uneven in length and in a feathery spray.
I second Eva’s motion – Eastern Hemlock, or Tsuga canadensis. Two identifying characteristics are the white stripes on the bottom of each needle and the shape of the cones.
The young needles are supposed to make a nice tea!
Tammy
Eva and Tammy . . . You are both correct with your naming and description of Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). Well done! As for me, I love the overall shape of the older Eastern hemlock trees, along with their small cones.