Coast Redwood ‘Les Barres’ 40/60cm (5L)

The Coast Redwood ‘Les Barres’ – Sequoia sempervirens ‘Les Barres’ is an exceptional cultivar that brings the majesty of California’s iconic redwoods to British gardens with enhanced cold tolerance. Originating at the prestigious French National Arboretum, the Arboretum des Barres, before 1995, this distinguished selection has earned recognition for its superior hardiness and striking ornamental qualities that set it apart from typical Coast Redwood forms.

What makes ‘Les Barres’ truly remarkable is its beautiful bluish foliage, a captivating departure from the standard green needles of the species. This cool, silvery-blue colouration creates a refreshing visual contrast in the garden, particularly when positioned alongside darker evergreens or deciduous trees. The intensity of the blue hue may vary with growing conditions and seasonal changes, often appearing most pronounced on fresh spring growth and providing year-round interest. This distinctive colouring, combined with the tree’s naturally elegant, conical form, creates a conspicuous presence that commands attention as a specimen tree.

The most significant advantage of ‘Les Barres’ is its enhanced cold hardiness compared to standard Coast Redwood varieties. This improved tolerance to frost and winter conditions makes it a more reliable choice for gardens throughout Britain, including areas that experience harsher winters. Whilst Coast Redwoods naturally prefer mild, moist climates, ‘Les Barres’ demonstrates greater resilience to temperature fluctuations and cold snaps.

This young plant, supplied at 40-60cm in a 5-litre pot, represents an excellent opportunity to establish a magnificent specimen tree that will develop into an impressive feature over time. The compact root system in the generous pot size ensures successful transplanting and vigorous establishment.

Care Guide for British Gardens

Plant ‘Les Barres’ in a sheltered position with moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter. Choose a location protected from harsh winds, particularly cold easterly winds in winter. Full sun to partial shade suits this adaptable conifer, though it performs best with good light. Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to encourage deep root development, and maintain consistent moisture during dry spells, as Coast Redwoods naturally thrive in humid conditions.

Apply a generous mulch of bark chips or well-rotted compost around the base each spring, keeping it clear of the trunk. Feed with a slow-release ericaceous fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and maintain the attractive blue foliage colour. Little pruning is required beyond removing any dead or damaged branches; the naturally symmetrical form develops best when left unpruned.

In exposed gardens, provide windbreak protection during the establishment phase. Though ‘Les Barres’ is hardier than typical forms, young plants benefit from additional protection during severe winters. Once established, this cultivar demonstrates excellent resilience and requires minimal maintenance whilst providing decades of architectural beauty.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres