The world's most massive and second longest-lived tree species. Maximum diameter recorded 35' (11 m.), maximum height 310' (95 m.), average 15-20' x 200-275'. Known maximum age approximately 3200 years.

Natural range is limited to isolated groves in the central and southern Sierra Nevada. These groves occur in the 4500-7500 foot elevation range, and are generally found on soils of granitic, dioritic, or andesitic origin such as the Holland, Olympic, and Sierra series. This tree is increasingly being planted worldwide, both for its beauty and for its fast-growing capabilities.

The shade tolerance of bigtree relative to its associated species is not accurately known. It is probably of intermediate tolerance.

Very little old-growth timber is commercially available since most old-growth trees are in state and national parks. Old-growth wood is very light, soft, straight-grained, coarse-textured, easy to work and very durable. Used for grape stakes, posts, decorative paneling, and siding.

The wood from young trees is distinctively different from that of old-growth, exhibiting properties that equal or exceed those of young-growth coastal redwood . As is the case with young-growth coast redwood, the wood of young-growth Sierra redwood is not as durable as old-growth, but shows considerable potential for use in light construction. Its long fibers make it a potential major contributor to Europe's pulp and paper industry as a short-rotation plantation tree.

Locations: (explanation)

• 120-2: Young-growth, cut from windfall at Whitaker's Forest Research Station, Tulare County, 1985. The characteristic knots and knot holes shown in this board are some of the reasons that usage of this wood and industrial growth of this tree are only slowly gaining acceptance.
• 139-1 Old-growth: This board is 2" x 52.5" x 10.5', 92 board feet. Gift of Sanger Lumber Co., Sanger, Calif. 1917