Abstract

Øyen, B.-H. 2001. Vestamerikansk hemlokk – gjøkungen blant innførte bartrær i Vest-Norge? Blyttia 59: 208-216.
Western Hemlock – an invasive introduced conifer in Western Norway.

In the 1920’ies Western Hemlock Tsuga heterophylla was introduced in forestry in W. Norway. The early growth of the hemlocks appeared so promising that it was recommended used in plantations. However, only about 150 hectare has been established, less than 0.2 per cent of the afforestation area with exotic species in W. Norway. Most of the seed used originates from the coastal areas in SE Alaska. Western Hemlock must be described as a very invasive conifer. It has a high potential for spreading into neighbour stands and coupes. Locally in W Norway the species must be described as naturalized. The growth of Western Hemlock in research trials in Norway is outstanding, the dominant yield classes are 12–18 m³ ha^-¹ year^-¹. There are only a few reports on butt rot or other diseases, but a major problem for utilisation of the wood are the occurrence of stem fluting. Today, other conifers are regarded as much more favourable for the small scale forestry in W. Norway.

Bernt-Håvard Øyen, Skogforsk–Bergen, Fanaflaten 4, N–5244 Fana. bernt-havard.oyen@skogforsk.no

Blyttia 59 (4)
Blyttias hjemmeside
Lagt ut 05.01.2002 JW