Giant Redwood ‘Barts Green’ 20/40cm (5L)

The Giant Redwood ‘Barts Green’ is a magnificent specimen tree that brings the majesty of California’s ancient forests to British gardens. This exceptional cultivar of Sequoiadendron giganteum is celebrated for its particularly vibrant green foliage that maintains its rich colour throughout the year with less die back than the species creating a striking focal point in any garden setting. At 20-40cm in this 5-litre pot, you’re acquiring a young tree with decades of spectacular growth ahead.

What sets ‘Barts Green’ apart from the species is its enhanced foliage colour and slightly more compact growth habit, though it still develops into a truly impressive specimen. The soft, scale-like leaves form dense sprays that clothe the branches from top to bottom, creating a magnificent pyramidal silhouette. As your tree matures, the bark develops into deeply furrowed, fibrous ridges with a warm reddish-brown tone that provides wonderful textural interest, especially striking in winter light.

Giant Redwoods are remarkably well-suited to the British climate, thriving in our cool, moist conditions. They’re surprisingly hardy once established, tolerating temperatures well below freezing and coping admirably with our unpredictable weather patterns. These trees have been grown successfully in British gardens since Victorian times, with many historic specimens proving their longevity and adaptability.

Planting and Position

Choose a position in full sun where your Giant Redwood will have ample space to develop. These trees prefer deep, well-drained soil with good moisture retention. Whilst they tolerate various soil types, they perform best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Avoid exposed, windy sites during the establishment phase, though mature specimens become remarkably wind-firm.

Dig a generous planting hole at least twice the width of the root ball, incorporating organic matter to improve soil structure. Plant at the same depth as the container, firm well, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base with bark chips or well-rotted compost, keeping it clear of the trunk.

Care and Maintenance

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons, particularly during dry spells, to establish a strong root system. Once established, Giant Redwoods are relatively drought-tolerant, though they appreciate consistent moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to encourage healthy growth.

Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead or damaged branches. These trees naturally develop their characteristic conical shape without intervention. Protect young trees from deer and rabbit damage with appropriate guards.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres