Metasequoia glyptostroboides
This tree profile is shared for educational purposes. Urban Forest Nursery does not currently grow this variety, but it remains part of ongoing discussions around urban tree selection.
UPDATE 2026: Although still a great tree and highly recommended, we no longer grow these because they just take so much room. When planting, give them lots of room to grow so they are there a very long time.
I recall an older ISA Tree Fund video describing the Dawn Redwood as a very popular urban tree in Europe. More locally, I know of a significant street tree planting in Snoqualmie Ridge. They appear to be growing well despite being planted in relative poor and compacted soils, but time will tell. Arthur Lee Jacobson, in his ‘Trees of Seattle’ book, reports that they are found all over Seattle with some fairly large ones existing, although only planted since the late 1940’s. They are especially appropriate for parks, golf courses, cemeteries, boulevards and other large open spaces.
The Dawn Redwood transplants very well and does not appear to have the aggressive root system found on the Giant Sequoia. There are several cultivars with possibly the ‘National’ and ‘Sheridan Spire’, the most popular for urban tree plantings. I always appreciate hearing your thoughts and knowledge of this and other tree varieties if you have them.
As always, let me know your experience with this tree.
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Jim Barborinas
Owner of Urban Forest Nursery, Inc.
ISA Certified Arborist #0135
ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist #356
15119 McLean Rd.
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
jim@urbanforestnursery.com