Giant sequoia
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Description
A large coniferous tree, which is the only species (S.giganteum) in its genus (Sequoiadendron). It is a member of the swamp cypress family. The giant sequoia trees can grow to over 80 feet in circumference and 272 feet tall. The trees are found on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California at altitudes from 4500 to 8000 feet. The thick, reddish brown bark is fire resistant. Its wood is light weight, soft and brittle. It is not used as timber and is currently a protected species.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Sequoiadendron giganteum; séquoia géant (Fr.); sequoia (Port); sequoia gigante (It.); Wellingtonia; big tree; sometimes incorrectly called giant redwood