2. Coast Redwood

Sequoia sempervirens

Coast Redwood is a long-living coniferous tree native to the coastal areas of US states northern California and southern Oregon. It is the only living member of the genus Sequoia and the tree that holds the world record for the tallest growing living species. In the UK, this species can reach heights of 35-40 metres, with the tallest UK species reaching 55 metres; an overall difference in yearly temperatures, environment and age keeps the UK coast redwoods at shorter heights than their ancient US counterparts, which can reach up to 116 metres in height. Similarly to the swamp cypress, this tree also possesses spongy bark with a dense, braided texture.

Discovering the exact year of S. sempervirens’ introduction into England can be initially confusing. This could be because of its family relative, the California native giant sequoia tree Sequoiadendron giganteum, which was introduced some 40 years before coast redwood. The term ‘redwood’ is often used interchangeably for both trees, and some sources refer to the introduction of the ‘redwood’ tree rather than a distinct species. Coast redwood, however, is primarily considered to have been introduced by Victorian plant hunters in 1843, from a plantation in Russia rather than in its native country. One of the oldest and tallest coast redwood stands in the UK was planted in 1857, in Leighton, Powys.

Coast redwood is exceptionally durable, noted for its natural insect and fire resistance, through its lack of resin and thick bark. In UK forestry, this tree is listed as an ‘emerging’ species that holds high potential for future utilisation, both as a response to increasing climate changes and various tree pests and diseases that have been causing significant impacts on native UK tree species. It has been commonly used for outdoor furniture in the past, as well as in construction. Outside of physical utilisation, the tree represents a sense of community and regeneration, with ‘sempervirens’ within its scientific name literally translating to ‘always green’.

Text © Ava Berry Jones / SLBI 2026