Contents
Description
Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is a unique species of tree that is often referred to as a living fossil. It is one of the three species of Metasequoia and is the only surviving species of the genus. It was discovered in China in the 1940s and was initially thought to be extinct. However, a small population was found growing in a remote valley in the Sichuan province.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Metasequoia |
Appearance
The Metasequoia Glyptostroboides can grow up to 130 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 9 feet. The tree has a conical shape and a straight trunk, with reddish-brown bark that is fibrous and peels in strips. Its leaves are deciduous, and they are green during the summer and turn red and orange during the fall. The tree produces small cones that are about an inch in length and are green during the summer and brown during the fall.
Care Guide
The Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is a relatively low-maintenance tree. It can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soil. It requires moderate watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Fertilization is not necessary, but it can help the tree grow faster. The tree prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also susceptible to root rot and canker, which can be prevented by providing adequate drainage and avoiding damage to the trunk.
Habitat
The Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is native to China and is commonly found in the Sichuan, Hubei, and Shaanxi provinces. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including lowland forests, riverbanks, and swamps.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Metasequoia Glyptostroboides an endangered species?
A: No, the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is not currently considered an endangered species.
Q: How long does it take for a Metasequoia Glyptostroboides to grow?
A: The growth rate of the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides varies depending on the conditions, but it can grow up to 3 feet per year.
Q: Is the wood of the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides used for anything?
A: Yes, the wood of the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides is used for furniture, flooring, and other construction projects.
Q: Can the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Metasequoia Glyptostroboides can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering and pruning to keep it from outgrowing the container.
Related Plants
- Metasequoia Glyptostroboides ‘Gold Rush’ – a cultivar with golden-yellow foliage
- Metasequoia Glyptostroboides ‘National’ – a cultivar with a narrow, upright form
- Metasequoia Glyptostroboides ‘Ogon’ – a cultivar with yellow-green foliage
References
- “Metasequoia glyptostroboides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c744.
- “Metasequoia glyptostroboides.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262011-1.
- “Metasequoia glyptostroboides.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed 20 October 2021. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/dawn-redwood.
