Giant Redwood 200/250cm (15L)

Giant Redwood – Sequoiadendron giganteum is the most massive tree on earth, and this specimen, supplied at 150/200cm in a 15L container, is already a well-branched young plant with plenty of presence. Native to the western slopes of California’s Sierra Nevada, it has adapted remarkably well to the mild, moist British climate, where trees planted in Victorian arboreta are now among the tallest living things in the country.

The foliage is quite unlike the flat sprays of many conifers. Short, awl-shaped, blue-green needles spiral tightly around the shoots, giving the branches a slightly bristly, rope-like texture that is pleasant to run a hand along. Young plants form a neat, dense pyramid with slightly drooping branch tips, gradually developing the buttressed trunk and rounded crown of maturity. The bark is perhaps the finest feature: warm cinnamon-red, deeply furrowed and remarkably thick and spongy, soft enough to press with a thumb. Small egg-shaped cones, around 5cm long, appear on established trees and can remain on the branches for years.

This is a tree for space. It makes a magnificent specimen on a large lawn, a focal point at the end of a long vista, or an avenue when planted in repetition. Long-lived and wind-firm once established, it is a genuine legacy planting, and its evergreen bulk gives structure and shelter throughout the winter months.

Care Guide

Plant between autumn and early spring while the soil is workable, avoiding frozen or waterlogged ground. Choose an open, sunny position with shelter from harsh, drying easterly winds, and allow generous room from buildings, drains and boundaries.

Giant Redwood prefers a deep, moist but free-draining loam and dislikes both parched sandy soil and heavy waterlogged clay. Dig a planting hole twice the width of the rootball, loosen the base, and fork in well-rotted organic matter. Plant at the same depth as the tree sat in its pot, firm gently and water in thoroughly.

Watering is the key to success in the first three to five years. During dry spells from spring to autumn, give a thorough soak once or twice a week rather than frequent light sprinklings, particularly in the drier eastern counties. A 7/10cm mulch of bark or leaf mould spread over the root area, kept clear of the trunk, conserves moisture and suppresses competing grass.

Feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a top dressing of well-rotted manure. Pruning is rarely needed and is best avoided beyond removing dead, damaged or crossing shoots; never cut the leading shoot, as the single straight leader gives the tree its characteristic outline. If a competing double leader forms, remove the weaker one while it is still small.

Young trees may need a stake for the first couple of seasons on exposed sites. They are hardy throughout Britain, though late frosts can scorch soft new growth, which recovers quickly. Watch for honey fungus on stressed trees and keep strimmers well away from the soft bark.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
More than 50 years

Ultimate spread
8 metres or more

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.