Sequoia sempervirens – Wikipedia

**Description:**
– Coast redwood reaches a height of 60 to 100m (200 to 330ft).
– Trunk diameter can be more than 9m (30ft).
– Conical crown with horizontal to slightly drooping branches.
– Bark can be up to 35cm (1.15ft) thick and red-brown in color.
– Leaves are 15–25mm (58–1in) long, dark green above, with two blue-white stomatal bands below.

**Taxonomy:**
– Redwood was described as Taxodium sempervirens by David Don.
– Genus Sequoia was erected by Stephan Endlicher in 1847.
– Redwood is one of three living species in the subfamily Sequoioideae.
– Molecular studies suggest redwood and giant sequoia are close relatives.
– Speculation exists about redwood being an ancient hybrid between giant sequoia and dawn redwood.

**Conservation Status:**
– Redwoods are classified as Endangered by the IUCN.
– Before logging, they covered an estimated 810,000ha (2,000,000 acres).
– Found along coastal California and southwestern coastal Oregon.
– Tallest living trees reaching up to 115.9m (380.1ft) in height.
– Among the longest-living organisms on Earth, living 1,200–2,200 years.

**Uses:**
– Redwood is valued for its timber, known for its durability and resistance to decay.
– Used in construction, furniture making, and outdoor structures.
– Redwood forests are popular tourist attractions.
– Conservation efforts aim to protect remaining redwood forests.
– Redwood forests contribute to biodiversity and carbon sequestration.

**Cultural Significance:**
– Redwoods hold cultural importance for indigenous tribes.
– Considered sacred and integral to tribal traditions.
– Redwoods inspire art, literature, and conservation efforts.
– Symbolize strength, resilience, and longevity.
– Redwood forests are designated as national and state parks for preservation.