Metasequoia glyptostroboides | Dawn Redwood - Girth 10-12cm - Height 320-340cm - 70lt

The Metasequoia glyptostroboides, commonly known as the dawn redwood, is a deciduous conifer belonging to the family Cupressaceae. It is one of only three species of redwood trees and is renowned for its prehistoric origins, often referred to as a "living fossil." 

This remarkable tree can grow to impressive heights of up to 40 metres (130 feet) with a conical shape. The bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and peels off in long strips, giving it a distinctive appearance. The leaves are needle-like, arranged oppositely on the branches, and turn a rich bronze or golden-brown before falling in the autumn. This seasonal shedding of leaves distinguishes the dawn redwood from its evergreen relatives.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides thrives in temperate climates and prefers moist, well-drained soils, often found near rivers and wetlands. Its growth rate is rapid, making it a popular choice for ornamental planting in parks and gardens worldwide. Despite its prehistoric lineage, the dawn redwood has adapted well to cultivation and can withstand urban conditions, including pollution and compacted soils.

The tree's history is fascinating, as it was once thought to be extinct and only known through fossil records until its rediscovery in the 1940s. Since then, efforts have been made to propagate and preserve this species, ensuring its survival and increasing its presence in both natural and managed landscapes.