Sequoia sempervirens, the Coast Redwood, represents the pinnacle of arboreal achievement. At 100/120cm in P9T pots, these young specimens offer an accessible way to grow the world’s tallest tree species. Despite their modest current size, they carry the genetic potential of their wild relatives, like the famous “Hyperion” which towers at 116 meters (379 feet) in California’s forests.
These RHS Award of Garden Merit winners demonstrate remarkable versatility in their early years. While young, they can be successfully grown in containers, making them suitable for gardeners with space constraints or those planning their garden’s future development. Their adaptability to pot culture provides flexibility in positioning and the opportunity to nurture these prehistoric giants from their early stages.
The species’ endangered status on the IUCN Red List makes garden cultivation increasingly important for conservation. In their natural habitat, Coast Redwoods can live for over 2,200 years, creating vast forests connected by intricate root systems that form some of Earth’s largest living organisms. These 100/120cm specimens represent the beginning of this remarkable journey.
Young Coast Redwoods show impressive growth rates, with the potential to add significant height each year in good conditions. They’re also champions of carbon sequestration, storing more CO2 than any other known tree species, making them not just ornamental treasures but valuable allies in environmental conservation.
Whether grown initially in containers or planted directly in generous garden spaces, these remarkable trees bring a piece of botanical magnificence to any setting, offering the perfect blend of practicality and prestigious heritage.
Sequoia sempervirens – Coast Redwood, holds several remarkable records:
- Tallest Tree: Coast Redwoods are renowned for being the tallest trees on Earth. The current record-holder for the tallest living tree is “Hyperion,” standing at an astonishing height of approximately 379 feet (116 meters). However, new discoveries may lead to the identification of even taller specimens.
- Largest Living Organism: The Coast Redwood forests form one of the largest living organisms on the planet due to their interconnected root systems, known as “clones.” These clones cover extensive areas and consist of genetically identical trees sharing a common root system.
- Oldest Tree: While not the oldest species, some individual Coast Redwoods have lived for over 2,200 years, making them some of the longest-living trees on Earth.
- Largest Groves: The Coast Redwood forests in California, particularly in areas like Redwood National and State Parks, host some of the most extensive and iconic groves of these majestic trees, creating awe-inspiring landscapes.
- Fastest Growth Rate: Coast Redwoods exhibit impressive growth rates, with young trees adding significant height each year. This rapid growth contributes to their towering stature.
- Carbon Sequestration: Due to their massive size and long lifespan, Coast Redwoods are effective carbon sinks, sequestering substantial amounts of carbon dioxide, making them valuable assets in combating climate change.
- Sequoia sempervirens has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Position young Sequoia sempervirens in full sun or partial shade. When container-growing, use a large, well-draining pot with quality compost. Regular watering is essential for pot-grown specimens, especially during the growing season. Feed annually with a balanced fertiliser. While hardy once established, young plants benefit from winter protection, particularly in containers.
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