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Description
Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush, also known as Dawn redwood, is a deciduous conifer tree that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is native to China and is one of the three known species of Metasequoia. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and 30 feet wide. It has an upright growth habit and a pyramidal shape, with a broad base and a narrow top. The foliage of this tree is a bright golden-yellow color in the spring and gradually turns green as summer approaches. In the fall, it turns a beautiful bronze color before shedding its leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Metasequoia |
Appearance
Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush is a beautiful tree that adds color and interest to any landscape. As mentioned earlier, it has an upright growth habit and a pyramidal shape. The bark of this tree is a reddish-brown color and has a peeling texture. The foliage of this tree is a bright golden-yellow color in the spring and gradually turns green as summer approaches. In the fall, it turns a beautiful bronze color before shedding its leaves. The leaves are flat and needle-like, measuring about 1 inch long. The cones of this tree are small and brown, measuring about 1 inch in length.
Care Guide
Taking care of Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush is relatively easy. Here are some tips to help you care for your tree:- Water: This tree prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.- Soil: This tree prefers slightly acidic soil that is well-drained. Amend your soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.- Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in an area that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Bagworms: These pests can cause defoliation of the tree. Handpick and destroy the bags or treat with an insecticide.- Phytophthora root rot: This disease can cause wilting and yellowing of the foliage. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush is native to China and is commonly found in wetlands and along riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush grow?
A: This tree can grow up to 2-3 feet per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Is Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush drought-tolerant?
A: No, this tree prefers moderate watering and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: Can Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush be used as a bonsai tree?
A: Yes, this tree can be used as a bonsai tree due to its upright growth habit and beautiful foliage.
Q: Is Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush deer-resistant?
A: No, this tree is not deer-resistant and may require protection from deer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Metasequoia Glyptostroboides Gold Rush:- Sequoiadendron giganteum (Giant Sequoia)- Sequoia sempervirens (Coastal Redwood)- Taxodium distichum (Bald Cypress)- Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar)
References
– “Metasequoia glyptostroboides ‘Gold Rush’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b497- “Metasequoia glyptostroboides.” The Morton Arboretum. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/dawn-redwood- “Metasequoia glyptostroboides.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/metasequoia-glyptostroboides/
