The Sequoiadendron giganteum, also known as the giant sequoia or giant redwood, is listed as “Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This designation means that the species faces a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
The giant sequoia’s endangerment is primarily due to historical logging activities and ongoing habitat loss. Despite conservation efforts, these ancient trees continue to face threats from climate change, diseases, and wildfires. Protecting & preserving their natural habitats and growing you own are critical steps to ensure the survival of the Sequoiadendron giganteum for future generations.
Reaching altitudes of well over 30m (100ft) these towering giant conifers grow rapidly to their truly awe-inspiring size. The Wellingtonia has a distinct narrowly conical shape, pointed at the top, with attractive reddish brown bark that glows in the evening sunlight.
Giant Redwoods – Sequoiadendron giganteum – A very large and long-lived evergreen tree that reaches over 100m tall. They are an endangered species. Help conserve these ancient giants by growing your own. Originally they covered Europe and Asia, now their last remaining stand is on the West coast of America in California where they are threatened by wildfire and climate change.
They are growing in popularity in the UK and can be found across most of the country, both in private and public spaces. The tallest being a 150 year old specimen in Scotland, reaching over 55m. They commonly feature in the top ten largest, tallest, oldest & stoutest tree lists.
Sequoiadendron giganteum, commonly known as the giant sequoia, holds several impressive records:
- Largest Trees: Giant sequoias are among the largest living organisms on Earth, with some specimens reaching astounding heights of over 300 feet (91 meters) 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.
Sequoiadendron giganteum aka Wellingtonia has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20C to -15C) when mature.
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
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