Giant Redwood ‘Conrad Appel’ 20/40cm (5L)

The Giant Redwood ‘Conrad Appel’ is a magnificent selection of Sequoiadendron giganteum that brings the majesty of California’s ancient forests to British gardens. This particular dwarf cultivar displays attractive bright green foliage that creates a striking architectural presence throughout the year, making it an exceptional specimen tree for those seeking a truly impressive focal point.

Currently supplied at 20-40cm in a 5-litre pot, this young Giant Redwood represents an exciting opportunity to establish one of the world’s most iconic conifers in your garden. Despite its modest starting size, this tree will slowly develop into a dwarf specimen with the characteristic thick, fibrous, cinnamon-red bark that becomes deeply furrowed with age. The foliage consists of dense, scale-like leaves that clothe the branches in spiralling arrangements, creating a full, pyramidal silhouette that remains attractive in all seasons.

‘Conrad Appel’ is renowned for its particularly vibrant green needle colour, which provides excellent contrast against darker evergreens and deciduous trees whilst staying relatively dwarf. This cultivar maintains a strong central leader and develops the classic conical shape that makes Giant Redwoods so instantly recognisable. The bark becomes increasingly spectacular as the tree matures, developing rich russet tones and a spongy texture that’s remarkably fire-resistant in its native habitat.

Growing Giant Redwood ‘Conrad Appel’ in British Gardens

This magnificent conifer thrives in the temperate British climate, appreciating our regular rainfall and moderate temperatures. Plant in a position that offers full sun for optimal growth and colour development, ensuring the location can accommodate its substantial ultimate dimensions. Giant Redwoods perform best in deep, moist but well-drained soil with good fertility.

Choose your planting site carefully, as this tree will become a permanent and dominant feature. Allow ample space away from buildings, boundaries, and underground services. The root system, whilst extensive, is relatively shallow for such a large tree, so avoid excessively exposed positions where strong winds might cause instability in later years.

Water newly planted specimens regularly during their first two growing seasons, particularly during dry spells. Once established, Giant Redwoods are remarkably drought-tolerant, though they appreciate consistent moisture. Apply a generous layer of organic mulch around the base each spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk itself.

Feed annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser to encourage healthy growth. Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any damaged or dead branches. Never top the leader, as this will spoil the tree’s natural form. Giant Redwoods are generally pest and disease-free in British gardens, making them remarkably low-maintenance once established.

These trees grow relatively quickly in their youth, often putting on 30-60cm annually in favourable conditions, before gradually slowing as they mature. The ‘Conrad Appel’ selection is particularly well-suited to larger gardens, estates, and parkland settings where its full grandeur can be appreciated for generations to come.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres