The redwood is one of the oldest tree species still present on Earth, with origins dating back to around 200 million years ago, during the time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. It was once widespread across the European continent, but became extinct in those areas due to glaciation.
Currently, the coastal redwood is classified as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List, and its wood is only sold in limited quantities.
The wood of this plant is distinguished by being light, rather soft and resin-free. It has a fine grain and a faint odour. Although it is not very resistant to bending or compression, it is easy to work with and does not withstand impact well.
However, its high resistance to decay makes it suitable for specific uses, such as roofing tiles, slatted frames for cold rooms, shutters, exterior cladding, shipbuilding and hydraulic engineering works.
From an aesthetic point of view, redwood can come in a variety of colours, including shades of brown, yellow, grey, red, purple and white.
Main source of description
Material-Archiv. (2024). Redwood. Material-Archiv.
Other sources
Natterer, J., Volz, M., Volz, M., & Herzog, T. (2001). Atlante del legno ([rist.]). UTET.
