The Dawn Redwood – Metasequoia glyptostroboides is a remarkable living fossil, rediscovered in China in 1941 after being thought extinct for millions of years. This fast-growing deciduous conifer offers year-round interest, with bright green, feathery foliage that turns to brilliant bronze-orange in autumn before falling.
Our 40/60cm cell-grown specimens are perfect for establishing this magnificent tree in your garden. Despite their current modest size, these saplings are primed for vigorous growth, typically adding 30-60cm per year in good conditions.
The Dawn Redwood develops a distinctive pyramidal shape with a straight trunk and horizontal branches. The bark is particularly attractive, starting reddish-brown and developing into a deep orange-brown with maturity, peeling in vertical strips to reveal fresher bark beneath.
Care Guide:
Plant in full sun or partial shade in any moist but well-drained soil. While adaptable to most soil types, it thrives best in slightly acidic conditions. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Though hardy throughout Britain, young trees benefit from shelter from strong winds.
Spring feeding with a balanced fertiliser will encourage strong growth. Mulch annually with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. No regular pruning is required – simply remove any damaged or crossing branches in late winter.
This prehistoric species makes an impressive specimen tree and creates striking winter silhouettes. It works particularly well near water features or in woodland gardens, where its buttressed trunk can develop to full effect.
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20-50 years
Ultimate spread
8-10 metres
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