Another Perfect Plant: Weeping Giant Sequoia

Written By Paul Cady

Sequoiadendron giganteum 'Pendulum' is an old cultivar of one of the largest and oldest trees in the world. Interest in the large tree prompted European growers to try to mass produce the species for their landscapes. Found in France in the 1860's, no two trees of this cultivar are the same. The cultivar is extremely variable, forming contorted, twisted shapes over time.

The tops occasionally bend or swoop in their climb, topping out over many years to a maximum height of 25' to 45' and a width of 3' to 5'. They are best grown in places sheltered from wind and in mild climates where the winters don't get too cold and the summers don't get too hot. Variously described as dinosaur-like, grotesque, and interesting, this cultivar is useful in specific applications as a specimen or in groups where the unique form can be utilized and appreciated.

For More Information:
PNW Plants
Monumental Trees
National Parks Service

Photo Credit:
Portland Tree Tour

Paul Cady

Paul is a landscape designer with a professional background in public horticulture. His years of experience maintaining both public and private gardens provide an informed perspective on choosing, arranging, and placing plants in the landscape. He is committed to creating landscapes that will survive and thrive over time through making informed plant choices and developing written landscape management plans.

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