Sequoia sempervirens aka Coast Redwood

Taxonomy

Genus Sequoia Family Cupressaceae Order Pinales Class Pinopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Sequoia sempervirens, also known as coast redwood, coastal redwood, or California redwood, is the only living species in the Sequoia genus of the cypress family Cupressaceae. It is a long-lived, evergreen, monoecious tree with a lifespan of 1,200-2,200 years or more. These trees are among the tallest and longest-living organisms on Earth, with heights reaching up to 115.9 meters (380.1 feet) and diameters up to 8.9 meters (29 feet) at breast height. This species originally occurred naturally in an estimated 810,000 hectares (2,000,000 acres) along coastal California and the southwestern corner of coastal Oregon. In addition to Sequoia sempervirens, the subfamily Sequoioideae also includes Sequoiadendron (giant sequoia) and Metasequoia (dawn redwood). However, the term redwood specifically refers to Sequoia sempervirens and not the other two species. In California, there are Redwood trees that rank among the world’s tallest living things. In home landscapes, Sequoia sempervirens can be enjoyed as a fast-growing evergreen specimen or planted in a row to create a hedge. The fine-needled foliage adds a soft texture to the landscape. This tree is the State Tree of California and provides instant form and structure to any landscape. Sequoiadendron gigantea, on the other hand, is the state tree of California and is known for its rapid growth of up to three feet a year. It has naturally rot-resistant wood and a pyramidal shape when young, but loses lower branches with age.

Common names

Coast Redwood, California Redwood, Sequoia

How to care for Coast Redwood

Difficulty

Coast Redwood presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Coast Redwood should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Coast Redwood loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Coast Redwood thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sequoia.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Coast Redwood to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Coast Redwood is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Coast Redwood’s native range is South-western N. America - Oregon to California.

More info:
Wikipedia

Report a problem