Coast Redwood, Giant Redwood or Dawn Redwood: Which Should You Plant?

Redwoods are some of the most spectacular trees you can grow, but “redwood” actually covers three different trees. Each has its own personality, and the right one depends on your garden. Here’s a friendly guide to help you choose.

Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens)

The tallest tree on Earth. Coast redwoods have soft, reddish, fibrous bark and flat, feathery evergreen foliage. They grow quickly and love a sheltered spot with moist, well-drained soil.

• Best for: larger gardens, woodland edges and anyone after fast, dramatic height.
• Bear in mind: young trees appreciate shelter from harsh, drying winds and hard frosts.

Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum)

The most massive tree in the world by volume. Giant sequoias have a broad, conical shape, spongy bark and blue-green, scale-like foliage. They’re tough, hardy and long-lived, and a familiar sight in parks and estates across the UK.

• Best for: big open spaces where it can become a true landmark.
• Bear in mind: it needs a lot of room, so plan well away from buildings and boundaries.

Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)

The surprise of the family. Dawn redwoods are deciduous, so their fresh green needles turn rusty orange in autumn before dropping. They grow fast, tolerate damper soils well and suit a wider range of gardens.

• Best for: gardeners who want seasonal colour, or who have heavier, wetter soil.
• Bear in mind: it will still become a large tree, so give it space.

Quick way to choose

• Want the tallest and fastest evergreen? Coast redwood.
• Want a hardy, majestic specimen with lots of space? Giant sequoia.
• Want autumn colour and tolerance of wet feet? Dawn redwood.

Whichever you pick, you’re planting something your family, and many generations after them, can enjoy. Browse all three in our shop and find the redwood that suits your garden.