Sequoiadendron Giganteum

Common name(s):

Giant Sequoia, Giant Redwood, Sierra redwood

Phonetic Spelling: 

Sih-KWOY-uh-DEN-dron jy-GAN-tee-um

Description:

Due to its ability to pull water from the ground, the giant sequoias can grow up to 325 feet tall. Its circumference at ground level can reach up to 102 feet. The oldest giant sequoias have been estimated to have been 3,266 years old. This is due to its enormous size and thick bark that protect the giant trees against strong winds, fires, and insects. Approximately 65,000 of these trees still live. Grows best in full sun.

Distribution/Location: 

Native to the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges of California.

Environmental Concerns: 

Global warming, intense wildfires, and frequent droughts are posing as a possible threat to the Giant Sequoias. These trees are beneficial towards the environment as their huge size allows them to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon in the atmosphere.

Citation(s): 

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1146#:~:text=Many%20giant%20sequoias%20are%20between,circumference%20of%20over%2094%20feet!

Learn More:

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287324