Trees

Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Gold Rush'

Gold Rush dawn redwood

Gold Rush dawn redwood. Photo: MeganEHansen / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Gold Rush brings bright golden-yellow foliage to the airy, horizontally branched form of dawn redwood. Its soft needles are deciduous, so the tree changes character between the growing season and winter. Strong light develops the richest color, while some afternoon protection is helpful in hotter-summer climates where golden foliage can be more vulnerable.

At a glance

Sun: Sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 25 ft, supplier garden size, not ultimate size · Width: 15 ft, supplier garden size
Water: Moist, deep soil; tolerates occasional wetness
Hardiness: USDA zone 5 minimum

Sizes & prices

#15Dawn Redwood with yellow tipsCall for price

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: Broad upright
Growth rate: 15+ inches/year (grower estimate)
Use: Deciduous specimen; golden-foliage focal point with space for a spreading crown.

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; golden-yellow needles

Growing & care

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

Sources & photo credits

Iseli Nursery

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

www.udel.edu

University of Florida IFAS

Photo: MeganEHansen / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web. · CC BY-SA 2.0

Image notes: Gold Rush dawn redwood. Photo: MeganEHansen / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web.

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