Coast Redwood
Sequoia sempervirens
The tallest tree species on Earth, thriving in the fog belt of coastal Northern California where it draws moisture directly from fog. Its thick, fibrous, tannin-rich bark makes it remarkably fire- and pest-resistant, and it sprouts vigorously from the base and burls. Needs cool, humid conditions and deep soil to thrive.
Field reference
Family
Cupressaceae
Growth rate
Fast
Mature size
200–300+ ft tall, 20–40 ft spread
Hardiness zone
7–9
Soil preference
Deep, moist, well-drained soils in cool, foggy coastal climates
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Pruning window
Late winter to early spring (dormant)
Wood properties
Lightweight, straight-grained, extremely decay- and fire-resistant softwood (~0.36 SG). Tall fibrous spars; thick spongy bark protects the cambium on big removals.
Native range
Pacific coast fog belt of central California to extreme southwestern Oregon
Green weight
50 lb/ft³
Common questions
How tall can a coast redwood get?
Coast redwoods are the tallest trees on Earth, exceeding 300 feet in old-growth groves. In landscapes they still grow very large and fast, so they need wide-open space.
Why is my redwood struggling away from the coast?
Coast redwood depends on cool, foggy, humid coastal air and deep moist soil. Inland heat and dry air cause foliage burn and stress; it performs best within its native fog belt.
Related species in Cupressaceae
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