Trees

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Dawn redwood

Mature dawn redwood at Dawes Arboretum, Ohio. Photo: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. photograph, not current inventory.

Dawn redwood is a fast-growing deciduous conifer with bright green needles arranged in opposite pairs. The crown begins pyramidal and can flatten with age, while reddish-brown bark develops fissures and peeling strips. Its eventual height makes it a tree for open landscapes, where moist soil and ample light support its imposing form.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Size: Height: 70–100 ft · Width: 15–25 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zone 4 minimum

Sizes & prices

#5Dawn Redwood$89.99
#10Dawn RedwoodCall for price
#15Dawn Redwood$189.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Pyramidal
Growth rate: Rapid
Use: Large specimen; waterside planting

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Species is listed as deer resistant, not deer-proof.
Drought: Established species trees have moderate drought tolerance, but perform best with consistent soil moisture.
Wet soil: Tolerates occasional wetness; prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous; bright green

Growing & care

Soil: Deep, moisture-retentive, slightly acidic soil; tolerates clay and occasional flooding.
Pruning: Little routine pruning is needed. Retain lower branches where space permits; remove them only for necessary clearance.
Issues: Avoid frost pockets: early freezes can injure late growth. Japanese beetles may damage foliage.

Sources & photo credits

Oregon State University

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

www.udel.edu

University of Florida IFAS

Photo: James St. John · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: Mature dawn redwood at Dawes Arboretum, Ohio. Photo: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. Wikimedia 960 px thumbnail; no other edits. photograph, not current inventory.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.