The Giant Redwood – Sequoiadendron giganteum stands as one of the most magnificent conifers available to British gardeners, holding the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM) in recognition of its outstanding garden performance. This legendary tree, naturally found in California’s Sierra Nevada, holds records as one of the largest and longest-living organisms on Earth, with wild specimens reaching heights over 95 metres and ages exceeding 3,000 years.
While their wild populations are endangered in their native habitat, these remarkable trees have proven themselves extraordinarily adaptable to British conditions, thriving throughout the country and demonstrating excellent hardiness once established. Mature specimens can withstand temperatures as low as -15°C, making them suitable for all regions of Britain.
In gardens, they develop into impressive specimens with distinctive reddish-brown bark and a commanding columnar to conical form. The soft, blue-green foliage arranges itself in graceful sprays around the branches, creating year-round interest. Young trees grow relatively quickly, developing the characteristic broad base and tapering crown that makes them such striking landscape features.
Their adaptability and resilience make them excellent choices for creating lasting landmarks in parks and larger gardens, where they can be appreciated by future generations. From this manageable 60/80cm size, each specimen will develop into a commanding presence that future generations will admire. These magnificent conifers are perfectly suited to British growing conditions, thriving in all areas of the country and creating lasting landmarks in our landscapes.
The Giant Redwood, holds several impressive records:
- Largest Trees: Giant sequoias are among the largest living organisms on Earth, with some specimens reaching astounding heights of over 95m or more.
- Oldest Trees: While not as old as the bristlecone pine, giant sequoias are still some of the oldest trees on the planet, with some individuals estimated to be over 3,000 years old.
- Largest Volume: In terms of sheer volume, the giant sequoia is unparalleled. Its massive trunks and thick branches contribute to its impressive girth and immense overall size.
- Largest Tree by Volume: The “General Sherman” tree, located in California’s Sequoia National Park, holds the title of the largest tree by volume. It boasts a volume of approximately 52,500 cubic feet (1,487 cubic meters).
- Largest Tree by Circumference: The “General Grant” tree, found in Kings Canyon National Park, California, is known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree” and holds the title of the second-largest tree by volume, but it has the largest base circumference of approximately 107 feet (32.6 meters).
- Largest Grove: The Giant Forest, situated in Sequoia National Park, contains a significant concentration of giant sequoias and is one of the most iconic and extensive groves of these majestic trees.
These records make the Sequoiadendron giganteum an awe-inspiring species, attracting nature enthusiasts and conservation efforts to preserve these remarkable giants for generations to come.
Plant your Giant Redwood – Sequoiadendron giganteum in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. While adaptable to most soil types, they prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Water regularly when young, particularly during dry spells, though established trees become remarkably drought tolerant. No regular pruning is needed as they naturally form their classic shape. A yearly feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring will support healthy growth. Although hardy when mature, young trees benefit from shelter against strong winds.
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
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