Also known as a living fossil, this beautiful deciduous conifer needs lots of space and sun.
It has lush needles, a graceful pyramidal form, and an elegant branching pattern.
Dawn redwood is a deciduous conifer.
It looks like an evergreen during the growing season as it is clothed in soft green needles.
The foliage turns russet-red in autumn before gracefully falling from the branches.
Birds seek out the dense branches of the tree for nesting.
The soil at the planting site should be rich, moist yet well-drained, and acidic.
How and When to Plant Dawn Redwood
Plant the tree in the early fall.
Backfill with the original soil.
Unless there is frequent and abundant rain, water the tree to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Stop watering when the ground freezes.
During the next growing season, water during dry spells.
Dawn redwood is usually planted as a specimen tree.
If you plant more than one, space the trees at least 25 feet apart.
Itssoil pH requirements, on the other hand, are more specific.
Like all redwood species, it needs acidic soil; a pH of 4.5 is ideal.
Consistent moisture is also key for the trees health.
It is able to survive dry spells.
Be sure to water the tree in times of little rainfall.
However, it does not tolerate early frosts in the fall that may injure the tender late-season growth.
High humidity, unlike hot, dry weather, is not an issue.
check that to get the soil tested before adding anything to the soil.
Pruning
Dawn redwood should not be pruned except to remove dead, broken, or diseased branches.
Choose the planting location well.
Pests and Problems
Dawn redwood is generally free of pests and diseases.
It is susceptible to redwood branch canker, a fungal disease.
Trees under heat stress have lower resistance to the fungal spores.
How to Propagate Dawn Redwood
Propagation of dawn redwood is best left to nursery professionals.
The seeds are very small and germination is slow.
Zone 5-8
‘Ogon’
Also known as golden dawn redwood, ‘Ogon.’
bears stunning chartreuse foliage in the spring and summer months and turns a lovely shade of bronze in autumn.
It reaches 100 feet in height when mature.
The feather-like foliage is bright green.
The tree reaches up to 10 feet in height in 10 years.
Zone 4-8
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are related.
Updated by Nadia Hassani
“Preventing and Treating Iron Chlorosis in Trees and Shrubs.
“Utah State University Forestry Extension.
