Factsheet S39: The North American Redwoods

The coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and the giant sequoia or wellingtonia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) are exceptionally large-growing and long-lived, and are amongst the tallest, largest and oldest trees in the world. Living trees of Sequioa sempervirens have been estimated to be at least 2000 years old and the largest Sequoiadendron giganteum to be about 3200 years old. Both species, the sole species in their genera, are native to western North America where they are valued for their majestic appearance and for their easily worked, stable, versatile and very durable wood.