Sequoiadendron giganteum aka Giant Sequoia

Sequoiadendron giganteum, commonly known as the giant sequoia, is a massive tree and the sole living species in its genus. It belongs to the family Cupressaceae and is one of three redwood species, along with the coast redwood and dawn redwood. Giant sequoias can be found naturally in groves on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. Unfortunately, the giant sequoia is listed as an endangered species by the IUCN, with fewer than 80,000 trees remaining. Recent destructive events, such as the Castle Fire of 2020 and the KNP Complex & Windy Fire in 2021, have further contributed to the decline of this species. Factors like fire suppression, drought, and climate change have made the giant sequoia severely threatened. Prescribed burns to reduce fuel load may play a crucial role in saving this species. The genus name "Sequoiadendron" is believed to be a tribute to Sequoyah, the inventor of the Cherokee syllabary, but an etymological study suggests that the name was actually coined by Stephen L. Endlicher, a linguist and botanist who corresponded with Sequoyah. The giant sequoia is a slow-growing evergreen tree with a pyramidal growth habit, reaching heights of approximately 25 meters. It has sharp, yellow-green leaves that turn grey-green as they mature and a distinctive reddish-brown trunk. The tree produces upright cones that hang down when ripe. Ideal for large parks or gardens, the giant sequoia requires adequate light, water, and fertilizer for optimal growth. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9 and is not prone to significant pests or diseases. With proper care, it can add significant height and trunk width in just one growing season. These long-living trees can reach heights of up to 260 feet and live for more than 3,000 years. They thrive in areas with an annual rainfall of 4 1/2 to 6 inches and well-draining, moist soil.