Sequoia sempervirens Coast Redwood 'Cantab'
Sequoia sempervirens - Coast Redwood 'Cantab' 80/100cm
Sequoia sempervirens - Coast Redwood 'Cantab' 80/100cm
Sequoia sempervirens Coast Redwood 'Cantab'

Coast Redwood ‘Cantab’ 60/80cm (5L)

Sequoia sempervirens

£112.81

Sequoia sempervirens ‘Cantab’, discovered at Cambridge University Botanic Gardens, features distinctive short, wide needles and a pyramidal habit. This elegant cultivar combines rich green foliage with strong architectural form.

The leaves are very similar to Coast Redwood ‘Prostrata’.

4 in stock

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Sequoia sempervirens ‘Cantab’, discovered as a witch’s broom growing on a Coast Redwood at Cambridge University Botanic Gardens, takes its name from ‘Cantabrigian’ – the traditional term for someone or something connected to Cambridge University. This distinguished cultivar offers a unique interpretation of redwood characteristics, most notably in its distinctive foliage pattern.

The short, wide needles of ‘Cantab’ create a particularly rich green display, setting it apart from typical Coast Redwoods. These distinctive needles, remarkably similar to those found on Sequoia sempervirens ‘Prostrata‘, create a dense, lush appearance that adds textural interest to the garden landscape. The overall effect is one of abundant verdancy, with each branch adorned in this characteristically compact foliage.

Despite its witch’s broom origins, ‘Cantab’ demonstrates vigorous growth and develops a pleasing pyramidal form. This architectural habit, combined with its unique foliage characteristics, makes it an excellent choice for creating distinctive focal points in garden settings. The dense growth pattern ensures year-round interest, while the pyramidal form provides valuable vertical accent.

Its discovery at Cambridge University Botanic Gardens marks an interesting chapter in British horticultural history, representing the ongoing development and diversity within Coast Redwood cultivation. The cultivar demonstrates how careful observation and selection can reveal remarkable new forms within this ancient genus.

Perfect for both formal and informal garden settings, ‘Cantab’ brings sophisticated structure and rich green colouration to the landscape. Its combination of distinctive foliage and strong growth habit makes it a fascinating choice for discerning gardeners.

Position Sequoia sempervirens ‘Cantab’ in full sun or partial shade. Ensure well-draining soil conditions. While hardy once established, young specimens benefit from shelter against harsh winds. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. The natural pyramidal form requires minimal pruning. Apply an annual spring mulch to preserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth.

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Large Items - Standard Courier (APC) £24.95
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Coast Redwood – Sequoia sempervirens Care Guide

The Coast Redwood – Sequoia sempervirens is one of the world’s most magnificent trees, capable of reaching extraordinary heights in its native California. In UK gardens, while not achieving the same dramatic proportions, it still grows into an impressive specimen, typically reaching 20-35 metres. This evergreen conifer is characterised by its straight trunk, distinctive reddish-brown bark, and dense, dark green foliage that creates a stunning vertical accent in larger gardens. Despite its imposing stature, it’s surprisingly adaptable to UK conditions when given appropriate care.

Soil Requirements
Coast Redwoods thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. While they prefer deep, loamy soils rich in organic matter, they can adapt to various soil types provided drainage is adequate. Regular addition of organic matter helps maintain soil quality and moisture retention, which is crucial for optimal growth.

Watering Guidelines
Young trees need consistent moisture during their establishment period, typically the first 2-3 years. Water deeply once weekly, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. While mature specimens develop some drought tolerance, they perform best with regular moisture, particularly during dry spells. Container-grown trees require more frequent watering, but always ensure pots have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring (March-May)
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser if needed, and refresh the organic mulch layer to a depth of 7-10cm, keeping it clear of the trunk. Check for any winter damage and monitor for early signs of pest activity.

Summer (June-August)
Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during hot, dry periods. Minimal pruning is required, but remove any dead or damaged branches. Ensure the base remains clear of competing vegetation.

Autumn (September-November)
Gradually reduce watering as growth slows. Apply a fresh layer of mulch to protect roots through winter. This is a good time to assess the tree’s structure and plan any necessary maintenance.

Winter (December-February)
Young trees may need protection from severe frost and cold winds. Water only during dry spells when there’s no frost. Monitor for snow damage on branches, particularly in heavy snowfall areas.

Additional Care Notes
Coast Redwoods create their own microclimate as they mature, often collecting moisture from fog and mist through their foliage. They prefer locations with some shelter from strong winds, especially when young. While generally pest-resistant, regular monitoring helps catch any issues early.

These magnificent trees require careful placement due to their potential size. Consider their ultimate height and spread when planting, ensuring they have space to develop their natural form. While they can be pruned to control size to some extent, they’re best suited to larger gardens where they can achieve their natural grandeur. Their evergreen nature means they provide year-round interest and can serve as excellent screening trees or distinctive focal points in appropriate settings.

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