Species · GBIF taxon 2683909
coast redwood
Sequoia sempervirensAlso known as Coastal Redwood, California Redwood
Coast redwoods dominate the foggy coastal strip of northern California, creating towering cathedral-like groves that harbor unique, self-contained canopy ecosystems. These ancient giants rely on heavy summer fog to survive the dry season, absorbing moisture directly through their needles to supplement groundwater. Their thick, fibrous bark contains high levels of tannin, providing remarkable resistance to both devastating forest fires and wood-boring insects.
AncientEvergreenGiant
1 / 7- diet
- Sunlight, water, and soil nutrients
- family
- Cupressaceae
- threats
- Historical logging, climate change, severe drought, and soil compaction from tourism
- life Span
- 1,200 to 2,200 years
EN
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Coast redwoods are endangered due to past clear-cutting, leaving only about five percent of the original old-growth forest.
Walk only on established paths and avoid stepping on the delicate forest floor surrounding the trunks.- Respect the Roots: Stay on boardwalks and designated trails to avoid compacting the shallow root system.
- Look Upward: Use binoculars to spot specialized ferns, salamanders, and shrubs living high in the canopy.
- Listen Closely: Experience the profound silence of the groves, which absorb sound waves exceptionally well.