By Aja Rivers
The California redwood is likely one of the most photographed trees in the world, and for good reason. It is the tallest tree on earth, and one of the oldest living things. The redwood forests continue to captivate tourists with their lush undergrowth, drive-through trees and wildlife. Redwood National Park was established in 1968 to protect these rare, gigantic trees.
History
In their present location, California redwoods have existed for 20 million years. Fossils show evidence that redwood-like trees lived as far back as 160 million years ago.
Size and Lifespan
The California redwood can grow up to 367 feet high and 22 feet in diameter. They weigh up to 1.6 million pounds and can live for over 2,000 years.
Location
The Pacific Coast, from southern Oregon down through central California, is the only place on earth that the California redwoods exist.
Growing Conditions
California redwoods require moisture and mild temperatures to survive, and their environment provides them with both. Coastal fogs provide cool moisture and make up 40 percent of their water intake in the summer. The area gets over 100 inches of rain annually, and the redwoods' fertile undergrowth continually creates rich soil.
Health and Reproduction
This resilient tree is rarely bothered by insects or disease. It can reproduce by seed or by sprouts that grow out of trunks or from root systems of fallen trees. The California redwood is the fastest growing conifer in North America.
Considerations
Unfortunately, only about 4 percent of the almost 2 million acres of redwoods in California remains due to logging which began in 1851. Logging continues today, but 80,000 of the 86,000 acres of old growth redwood remaining is protected by the government.
Resources
About the Author:
Aja Rivers is a New England native who has been writing professionally for nine years. Her poetry has appeared in "Tiger’s Eye: A Journal of Poetry," "Main Channel Voices" and "The Aurorean." She has an associate's degree in science from Cape Cod Community College and a paralegal certificate from Gloucester County College. Rivers is also a certified all-breed dog groomer.
