Form: This tree is usually found between 200 and 275 ft. in height and a dbh. of 7 to 12 ft. It has a straight bole with a narrow crown.

Needles:
             

Arrangement: 2-ranked

Length: 1-2 in. long

Shape: flattened

Other: 2 stomatal bands below

 

Bark: The bark is very thick, often up to 1 ft. thick, and is deeply furrowed with rounded ridges with a reddish to grayish-brown color.

Cones: The cones are very small. They are 3/4 to 1" in length and egg-shaped with reddish-brown color.

Distinguishing characteristics: This is the tallest tree in the world. It has been found at height up to 450 ft. It has a distinctively small, egg-shaped cone, and deeply furrowed bark.

Range: This species is restricted to fog belt, that covers a strip of coast from San Francisco Bay to southwestern Oregon.

Silvics: This species occurs on mesic soils, alluvial fans and coastal plains.

Ecological and cultural importance: This is California's most valuable timber species. It is used in various applications. It provides habitat for the endangered spotted owl and marbled murrelet.