Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Dawn Redwood

Previously thought to be extinct, this conifer was discovered in China during the 1940s. It is a fast growing, deciduous tree with narrow conical habit when young, spreading with age. Grows up to 50m high, but typically 20-30m high in cultivation. Trunk is red-brown, with fissures towards the base. Leaves are small, linear, bright green and arranged in two horizontal ranks, turning orange-yellow in autumn. Cones are small and rarely seen in cultivation.

Uses

Ornamental tree suitable for larger gardens and parks. Suitable as a high screen. Durable timber has potential for forestry.

Culture

Requires full sun, a sheltered position and good summer rainfall. Prefers a deep, fertile, moist and well-drained soil. Frost tolerant, but drought sensitive. Can be pruned, but growth is too sparse for a solid hedge. Propagate by seed or by cuttings from side shoots in autumn.

Propagation

No information available at this time...

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