Coast Redwood ‘Glauca’ 40/60cm (5L)

The Coast Redwood ‘Glauca’ is a truly magnificent conifer that brings an ethereal, silvery-blue beauty to gardens. This stunning cultivar of Sequoia sempervirens stands apart from the species with its striking glaucous foliage and distinctive white shoot tips that create an almost frosted appearance throughout the year. The silvery needles shimmer in sunlight, offering a dramatic contrast to traditional green conifers and providing year-round architectural interest.

This particular specimen measures 40-60cm in height and is supplied in a generous 5-litre pot, giving it an established root system that ensures reliable transplanting success. At this juvenile stage, the tree displays the characteristic blue-grey foliage that intensifies as new growth emerges with its signature white-tipped shoots. The soft, needle-like leaves are arranged spirally along the branches, creating a feathery texture that moves gracefully in the breeze.

Coast Redwoods are remarkably adaptable to the British climate, thriving in our mild, moist conditions. ‘Glauca’ performs exceptionally well in gardens with adequate rainfall and benefits from the humidity found in many regions. This cultivar develops into a tall, conical specimen tree with a straight trunk and elegant, slightly drooping branches that add to its ornamental appeal. The reddish-brown bark becomes deeply furrowed with age, providing winter interest and textural contrast.

In gardens, this silvery redwood makes an outstanding specimen tree for larger spaces, parkland settings, or as part of a mixed conifer collection. Its unique colouration provides a sophisticated focal point and works beautifully alongside darker evergreens or as a backdrop to colourful perennial borders. The tree’s upright habit and relatively narrow spread make it suitable for avenues or as a vertical accent in spacious garden designs.

Care Guide for British Climate

Plant in a sheltered position with moist, well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter. Coast Redwoods prefer full sun to partial shade and need protection from harsh, drying winds, particularly when young. Choose a location with acidic to neutral soil for optimal growth.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep root system. Once established, the tree tolerates brief dry periods but performs best with consistent moisture. Mulch around the base each spring with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Feed annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for conifers. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds in late summer as this encourages soft growth vulnerable to frost damage.

Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead or damaged branches in late spring. The tree naturally maintains its elegant conical shape. Stake young trees for the first two years to ensure straight growth.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres