Origin
The Metasequoia glyptostroboides, also known as the dawn redwood, is a conifer originating from central China. Until 1944, this tree was only known as a fossil, but upon rediscovery, a few living specimens were found to exist in the Hubei province. The tree was able to survive in this inhospitable, limestone-dominant mountainous region. The species has since been widely disseminated internationally as an ornamental tree.

Characteristics
The dawn redwood is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 20 to 25 meters. The leaves are needle-like and turn bright orange in the autumn. The tree has the exceptional quality of losing its leaves in the winter, which is unusual for a conifer. The bark is reddish-brown and peeling. The dawn redwood generally has a narrow, pyramidal crown.

Care
The Metasequoia glyptostroboides is not fussy about soil type, as long as it is well-draining. The tree strongly prefers a sunny location. Only in young trees can some protection be provided in cold winters. Generally, the dawn redwood is not bothered by pests or diseases. Pruning is normally unnecessary unless it involves shaping the tree or removing dead or damaged branches.