Sequoia sempervirens Coast Redwood Seeds (CA, USA, Extreme)
Coast Redwood - Sequoia sempervirens seeds
Sequoia sempervirens - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Coast Redwood - Sequoia sempervirens seeds

Coast Redwood Seeds (CA, USA, Extreme)

Sequoia sempervirens

From: £6.89

These Coast Redwood Sequoia sempervirens seeds come from high-elevation California ridgetops. Collected from trees growing in hotter, drier, and often snowy conditions, they might offer better resilience. These are the same seeds we use ourselves at our specialist Redwood nursery.

Stock of these seeds is rare and unpredictable – we may not always have stock of these.

✓ These are the same high-quality seeds we use in our own nursery to grow healthy, thriving trees. Follow our germination guide for best results.

Feel free to call 01257 752247 or email us if you would prefer to order on the phone or have any questions. Trade / wholesale enquiries are welcome.

The Coast Redwood Sequoia sempervirens from our Extreme collection offers something special for gardeners. These seeds come from carefully selected trees growing at high elevations on California’s inland ridgetops, where conditions are hotter, drier and often snowy. These parent trees have adapted to more extreme conditions than their coastal cousins, potentially offering better cold tolerance. These are the same seeds we use ourselves at our specialist Redwood nursery.

The offspring of these hardy trees share the classic Coast Redwood features – soft, feathery foliage that creates a delicate, almost ferny appearance. The bark develops deep furrows and a rich reddish-brown colour as it matures. In gardens, it forms an elegant pyramidal shape that adds real character to any space.

These ridge-top variants might be particularly suited to gardens in drier or more exposed areas. Like all Coast Redwoods, they grow relatively quickly, putting on about 45cm each year when young. Their narrow, upright form means they won’t take up too much space in their early years.

While we can’t guarantee identical traits to the parent trees, these seeds from more challenging environments could produce more resilient trees. The germination rates are notably higher than UK-sourced seeds, giving you the best chance of success.

Seeds: approx  50% viable
Provenience: CA, USA

Bonsai Suitable?
Redwoods can be grown as bonsai, but beware of products marketed as “bonsai seeds” – this is just a marketing tactic, as there’s no such thing as special seeds for bonsai. While some tree species have been bred to grow smaller or slower, this isn’t the case with Redwoods. All seeds are simply regular seeds of their species. It’s also worth noting that Redwoods grown as bonsai don’t produce flowers or seeds, as they only begin flowering and producing seeds in nature when they’re planted out.

Delivery charges will be based on the highest applicable rate from our rate table, determined by the items in your order.
Alternatively, we offer the option to collect your items in person by prior arrangement.
These prices are based on delivery to UK Mainland. Delivery to Highlands & Islands will be more.
Delivery Class Delivery Cost
Royal Mail Letter - Royal Mail Tracked £2.71 This item
Royal Mail Letter - Royal Mail Second Class £0.79 This item
Standard Items - Standard Courier (APC) £8.95
Standard Items - Standard Courier (Evri) £4.99
Medium Items - Standard Courier (APC) £9.95
Medium Items - Standard Courier (APC/-5|£10.95
Large Items - Pallet Courier £90.00
Large Items - Standard Courier (APC) £24.95
Pallet Courier - Pallet Courier£90.00

All Coast Redwood seeds require a simple stratification process to germinate. Don’t worry, it’s easy.

  • Soak the Sequoia sempervirens seeds for 24 hours in warm water. (Not hot water).
  • Possibly add some Superthrive – these are some plant vitamins and amino acids. It’s not required, however we like to give our Sequoia sempervirens seedlings the best start in life.
  • Mix the seeds with some peat free compost or an inert medium like vermiculite.
  • Add the seeds to a polythene bag or small tub that will fit nicely in your fridge. Loosely seal the bag – some air exchange needs to occur.
  • Check every few days to confirm the seeds are still moist – keeping them moist during this time is vital.
  • Chill the seeds for 4 weeks in the fridge. Don’t forget to set a reminder for yourself to remove them.
  • Move the Sequoia sempervirens seeds to a warm windowsill or heated propagator. Keep the seeds moist during this time.
  • Once the seeds start to germinate you should prick them out and pot them on as soon as possible.

Germination of Sequoia sempervirens can be erratic. For seeds that don’t germinate in about two months, move them back to the fridge and repeat the stratification process.

An alternative way to sow the seeds is to follow nature, simply so the Sequoia sempervirens seeds in a tray outside in a sheltered location after the last frost and let nature take it’s course.

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.