Dawn Redwood ‘Schirrmann’s Nordlicht’, meaning ‘Northern Light’, is a rare and beautiful dwarf variety that brings something rather special to gardens. This compact form stands out with its lovely cream-yellow foliage, which is made even more striking by the reddish tints on its young shoots. The soft, feathery needles create a wonderful display that changes through the seasons.
This small tree grows naturally into a neat, rounded shape that fits perfectly into modern gardens. Unlike the towering standard Dawn Redwood, this little gem stays compact and manageable, making it ideal for smaller spaces or growing in large containers. The slow-growing nature means it won’t outgrow its spot, typically reaching only 2-3 metres over many years.
Found as a chance discovery in Europe, this variety has become highly sought after by gardeners who want something different. The foliage catches light beautifully, creating a bright spot in partly shaded areas of the garden. In autumn, the needles turn lovely bronze shades before falling, revealing attractive bark that adds winter interest.
The tree works brilliantly as a focal point in mixed borders or as a specimen plant in a prominent position. Its unusual colouring and texture make it a real talking point, while its compact size ensures it won’t overwhelm neighbouring plants.
It’s important to know that these trees are deciduous, dropping their leaves in late autumn and remaining bare until early spring. This makes them quite different from other redwoods, but offers a wonderful display through the year.
Spring begins with fresh, lime-green feathery leaves unfurling along the branches. The foliage deepens to a lovely soft green through summer, creating gentle, dappled shade beneath. Autumn brings the real show, with the entire tree glowing in shades of amber, copper and bronze before the leaves fall.
The winter reveal is just as lovely, showing off the tree’s elegant shape and beautiful fluted bark. The branches sweep upwards in a natural pyramid, creating a striking silhouette against winter skies. This neat, architectural form means it works well even in smaller gardens.
Dawn Redwoods are easy to grow and maintain. They prefer moisture-retentive soil but will cope with most conditions once established. Plant in full sun or partial shade, in a spot with enough space for their eventual height. They’re hardy throughout Britain and don’t mind exposed sites. Water regularly in the first few years and add a thick mulch around the base each spring. No regular pruning is needed as they naturally form an elegant shape.
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