Coast Redwood ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ 40/60cm (5L)

Sequoia sempervirens ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ is an absolutely stunning weeping Coast Redwood that brings architectural drama to gardens with its extraordinary pendulous form. This exceptional cultivar rockets skyward with remarkable vigour, sending up a strong, arrow-straight central leader cloaked in sharply pendent branches that cascade downwards like a living waterfall. The soft green-blue foliage creates a striking contrast against the rich, fibrous bark, making this one of the most captivating weeping conifers you can grow.

What sets ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ apart is its impressive growth rate combined with its narrow crown. Expect around 60cm of vertical growth per year in favourable conditions, allowing this remarkable tree to reach approximately 6m tall with a slim 2m spread within just 10 years. This exceptional growth habit makes it perfect for creating instant impact in gardens where space is at a premium, delivering vertical drama without overwhelming neighbouring plants.

The sharply pendent branches give ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ an unmistakable silhouette that changes with the seasons. The soft, needle-like foliage in gorgeous shades of green and blue catches the light beautifully, creating movement and texture throughout the year. Unlike many weeping conifers that can appear heavy or sombre, this Coast Redwood maintains an elegant, graceful appearance that complements both contemporary and traditional garden designs.

This architectural specimen thrives as a focal point in mixed borders, makes a stunning statement in gravel gardens, or creates dramatic punctuation marks when planted in pairs flanking pathways or entrances. Its narrow profile means you can enjoy the majesty of a Coast Redwood even in smaller gardens, whilst its weeping habit provides year-round interest and structure.

Care Guide for British Climate

Plant ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. This Coast Redwood appreciates a sheltered position in full sun to partial shade, protected from harsh winter winds that can damage young growth. Choose a location where the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged, as these trees naturally grow in the fog-belt regions of California and appreciate atmospheric moisture.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, continue watering during prolonged dry spells, particularly in summer. Apply a generous mulch of well-rotted compost or bark chips around the base each spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch away from the trunk itself.

Feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support the vigorous growth rate. Little pruning is required beyond removing any damaged or crossing branches in late winter. The strong central leader naturally maintains the tree’s striking upright form, whilst the side branches develop their characteristic weeping habit without intervention.

In colder regions, young plants benefit from fleece protection during severe frosts for the first winter. Once established, ‘Loma Prieta Spike’ proves remarkably hardy and resilient, tolerating typical British weather conditions with ease whilst maintaining its spectacular architectural presence throughout the year.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres