Giant Redwood ‘Shortys Blue’ 20/40cm (5L)

The Giant Redwood ‘Shortys Blue’ is a stunning compact cultivar of Sequoiadendron giganteum that brings the majesty of California’s legendary giants to gardens of all sizes. This remarkable variety stands apart with its striking silvery-blue foliage that catches the light beautifully throughout the seasons, creating a shimmering focal point that’s truly captivating. Unlike its towering relatives in the Sierra Nevada, ‘Shortys Blue’ grows at a more restrained pace, making it an excellent choice for those who want the character and presence of a Giant Redwood without quite the same commitment to space.

The foliage is densely packed along sturdy branches, forming a neat pyramidal shape that maintains its structure naturally with minimal intervention. Each needle-like leaf displays that characteristic blue-grey colouring that intensifies during cooler months, providing year-round interest. The bark develops the classic fibrous, reddish-brown texture that Giant Redwoods are famous for, though on a more manageable scale. As the tree matures, this bark becomes increasingly attractive, adding wonderful textural contrast to your garden.

This 20-40cm specimen arrives in a 5-litre pot with an established root system, ready to settle into its permanent home. At this young stage, it’s the perfect size for planting out, allowing you to watch it develop from an early age. ‘Shortys Blue’ is remarkably hardy and adaptable, thriving in the British climate once established. It tolerates our wet winters surprisingly well, though it appreciates good drainage to prevent waterlogging around the roots.

Care Guide for British Gardens

Plant your Giant Redwood in a position with full sun to partial shade, though it will develop the best colour and form in an open, sunny spot. The soil should be moist but well-drained – these trees aren’t fussy about pH and will grow happily in anything from slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Dig a generous planting hole, incorporate some organic matter, and ensure the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to help establish a deep root system. Once settled, ‘Shortys Blue’ becomes remarkably drought-tolerant, though it benefits from watering during prolonged dry spells. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is rarely necessary – simply remove any dead or damaged branches in late winter. The natural pyramidal form develops beautifully without intervention. Protect young trees from strong winds until they’re well-established, and keep the area around the base clear of competing vegetation for the first few years.

Ultimate height
1 – 2 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres