Giant Sequoia
Sequoiadendron giganteum · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood, Broad-based pyramidal
Plant Family
Cupressaceae
Tree Category
Specimen Tree, Conifer, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (wild-type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6-9; exhibits some cold tolerance but prefers climates with snowy winters and dry summers.
About This Tree
The world's largest tree by volume, characterized by a massive trunk with a distinct taper and a dense, broadly pyramidal crown. Known for its longevity (up to 3,000+ years) and impressive scale.
Leaf Characteristics
Small, awl-shaped, scale-like needles that are blue-green to dark green. They are arranged spirally on the shoots, measuring 3-6mm long, and are evergreen.
Bark Characteristics
Extremely thick (up to 2 feet), fibrous, spongy, and furrowed. It is reddish-brown with deep longitudinal fissures, providing significant fire resistance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, USA; widely planted in temperate regions globally.
Growing Season
Year-round evergreen foliage; pollination occurring in late winter to early spring; cones persist on the tree for up to 20 years to release seeds after fire or drought.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for optimal growth. Needs deep, well-drained, moist soil; prefers high humidity but has moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Height of 60-275 feet; spread of 25-60 feet. Fast growth rate when young; trunk diameter can exceed 20 feet in old-growth specimens.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional resistance to fire, rot, and insects due to high tannin content. Historically significant as a 'living fossil' and valued for ornamental beauty and carbon sequestration.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides essential nesting sites for birds and squirrels. The seeds are a food source for Douglas squirrels and various finches. Offers year-round thermal cover for larger mammals.