Coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), also commonly known simply as redwood, is the sole living species of the genus Sequoia, trees in the Cypress family (Cupressaceae). The evergreen needles cover long branches that drape gracefully over the characteristic rust-colored bark of its trunk. These are the tallest trees on earth, with the tallest reaching at almost 380 feet, and a trunk at 26 feet around.

Redwood cones are small compared to other evergreens but are valuable food sources for wildlife. Coast redwood supports many animals, insects, amphibians and birds. The endangered Marbled Murrelet lives in the branches of old-growth redwood trees. The redwood grows within 30 miles of the coast in California and southwestern Oregon. It relies on ample fog and cool temperatures in the summer, and rainy winters. It also grows best when it has company; redwoods support each other with a network of roots and fungi.

If you are lucky enough to live in or near the redwood forest, there is little you need to do for the maintenance of your mature trees. When the inner needles turn brown and shed in late summer, know that this is normal. Even "evergreens" shed old leaves from time to time. Allow the needles to remain on the soil after they fall; they will protect the soil and add important nutrients back into the soil as they break down. When planting a new redwood, site it in moist soil, and away from buildings, where falling branches won't damage structures.