Giant Redwood

A vigorous and long-living evergreen conifer tree, Sequoiadendron giganteum eventually reaches a huge size, with a heavy trunk and thick reddish brown bark. When young, the Giant Redwood or ‘Wellingtonia’ has a conical habit but as it matures, the branches become more widely spaced and downswept while the lower stem becomes free of branches. In its native area of California and Oregon, the Giant Redwood can reach great heights and wide girths. The famous “General Sherman” tree reached 84m (275ft) with a girth of 25m (82ft) after 3,200 years.

Site: Tolerates inland exposure, prefers shelter of other trees when young
Soil: Well drained, moist soils, avoid chalky soils
Position: Full sun
Season of Interest: All year foliage, bark interest, curiosity
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 75-100ft + (25-30m) Spread: 25-40ft (7.5-12m)