The impressive sequoia trees in the western United States reach astounding growth heights of up to 100 meters. Although you would certainly have a rarity with a plant of this size, such a tree in your garden is hard to imagine. After all, the tall growth of the American specimen also has a disadvantage: the beautiful leaves are hidden from the viewer's field of vision.
The appearance of the leaves varies depending on the sequoia species
appearance of the leaves
Small needles adorn the branches
The sequoia is a coniferous tree. Depending on the species, the appearance of its leaves varies. The mountain sequoia, for example, has scale-like needles that are either arranged in clusters or in clusters. The coast redwood, on the other hand, has solitary, needle-like leaves. These alternate pinnae are severely parted. On average, their length is 4 to 20 mm and their width is 1 to 2.5 mm. All sequoia species have in common the dark green color of their needles, which can sometimes take on a bluish tinge. The leaves are vaguely reminiscent of those of the yew. While the top has an intense green hue, the bottom is a little lighter.
cones, flowers and seeds
Both small flowers and cones, which contain the seeds of the Sequoia, sit on the needles.
Interesting facts about the flowers:
- Length of male flowers: 5-7 mm
- Length of female flowers: 10 mm
- Color of male flowers: pale yellow
- Color of female flowers: green
- Flowering season of the mountain sequoia: March to April
- Coast redwood flowering season: February to March
Worth knowing about the cones:
- ovoid
- hang down
- 1.5 to 3 cm long
- only form after 20 to 25 years
- Fruiting of the mountain sequoia: July to August
- Coast redwood fruiting: September to November
The sequoia is monoecious, meaning it has both male and female flowers. This enables self-fertilization.
shedding of leaves in autumn
When it gets cold, the leaves of the sequoia turn reddish-brown. In the fall, the Seqouia sheds its needles completely. In the following spring, however, you can look forward to a deep green dress of leaves again.
Peculiarities of the coast redwood
The evergreen coast redwood alone wears its needle dress all year round. Extensive leaf loss indicates pest infestation or a disease. Incorrect watering may be responsible for this.