California has long been known for its big trees, and every year people travel from all over the world to see these towering giants. For some, giant redwood trees and sequoia trees are considered one and the same. Both are found naturally only in California, both share the same cinnamon-colored bark, and both grow to awe-inspiring heights. However, while they share many similar features, there are some key differences between giant redwoods and giant sequoias.
So what makes one different from the other? Read on to find out!
Location
Both the coastal redwood tree, which is often called a giant redwood, and the giant sequoia require very specific, yet very different, environmental conditions to survive.
Giant redwood trees grow naturally only along a narrow belt on the Northern California coastline. They thrive in a moist, humid climate, and the near-daily coastal fog provides them with exactly the kind of conditions they need to grow. The fog adds moisture to the soil and lowers their rate of evaporation, as well.
Giant sequoias live at a much higher altitude. They grow naturally only along the western slope of California's Sierra Nevada mountain range, mostly between a 5,000- and 7,000-foot elevation level. While the temperatures in Sequoia National Park are fairly mild year-round, sequoias need a period of dry heat for their cones to open and release their seeds.
Tallest vs. Largest
Giant redwoods are the tallest trees in the world, reaching heights of up to 378 feet. Their bases can be up to 22 feet in diameter and they can weigh up to 1.6 million pounds.
Giant sequoias, on the other hand, don't grow quite as tall but can still reach a very impressive height of up to 311 feet (that's still the size of a 31 story building!). While not the tallest, giant sequoia trees are the largest trees in the world. Their bases can be up to 40 feet in diameter and a mature tree can weigh as much as 2.7 million pounds.
More Facts About Sequoia & Giant Redwoods
Giant Redwood Trees
Live up to 2,000 years old
Have branches up to 5 feet in diameter
Bark grows up to 12 inches thick
Can reproduce either by seed or by sprout
Giant Sequoias
Live up to 3,200 years old
Have branches up to 8 feet in diameter
Bark grows up to 3 feet thick
Reproduce by seed only
If you can’t see these stunning specimens in person, our photo gallery offers a peek at the park’s beautiful sequoia groves. You can also read about the trees you’ll find at the park in our Giant Sequoias section.
