Sequoiadendron giganteum  Big Tree

Taxodiaceae

From California. Slow to moderate growth evergreen tree, grows up to 300'. Biggest ones weigh about 4 million pounds! 1/4 to 1/2" long gray-green needles, entire and awl-like. Alternate arrangement, whorled. Cones are larger than Sequoia sempervirens (2 to 3"). Prefers full sun, moderate to light water, loam. Tolerates drought, heat, poor soil and wind. Low maintenance, little pruning required (keep central leader). Uses: background, bonsai, container, clipped hedge, specimen, grove tree, windbreak, fire retardant. Photo above taken at Strybing; we've also seen it at the College of Marin.