Likely Coast Redwood (alternative: Giant Sequoia) — Sequoia sempervirens (alternative: Sequoiadendron giganteum)

Likely Coast Redwood (alternative: Giant Sequoia)

Sequoia sempervirens (alternative: Sequoiadendron giganteum) · Softwood; temperate conifer

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood; temperate conifer
Origin
Coastal northern and central California into southwestern Oregon; commonly planted ornamentally elsewhere.
Hardness
Approximately 450 lbf Janka; Very Soft.
Durability
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance, while sapwood is substantially less resistant. Insect resistance is moderate.

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Grain Pattern

Not assessable from bark and foliage; typically straight, fine, and even-grained, sometimes slightly wavy or figured.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is pinkish red to deep reddish brown, often darkening or weathering gray; sapwood is pale cream to light pink.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 450 lbf Janka; Very Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable to Very Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance, while sapwood is substantially less resistant. Insect resistance is moderate.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$6–15 per board foot for clear, usable redwood; common construction grades may be lower.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The tree appears mature, but the sample’s age cannot be determined reliably from a photograph; bark age is not equivalent to timber age.

Common Uses

Exterior siding, decking, fencing, garden structures, water tanks, beams, furniture, paneling, and veneer.

Geographic Origin

Coastal northern and central California into southwestern Oregon; commonly planted ornamentally elsewhere.

Workability

Very easy to cut, plane, sand, glue, and fasten, though soft fibers dent easily and can fuzz or crush; tannins may discolor fasteners and finishes.

Finish Recommendations

For exterior use, clean and apply a penetrating exterior stain or water-repellent; indoors, use shellac, lacquer, oil, or polyurethane after thorough sanding. Test finishes for uneven absorption.

Notable Features

Distinctive fibrous, deeply furrowed reddish-brown bark and scale-like evergreen foliage. Wood is lightweight, dimensionally stable, and naturally weather-resistant.

Learn more about Likely Coast Redwood (alternative: Giant Sequoia) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 5, 2026