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Giant Sequoia

Sequoiadendron giganteum

Also known as: Giant Redwood, Sierra Redwood, Wellingtonia

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Giant Sequoia wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
480 lbf (2,135 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
415 kg/m³ (26 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.4
Type
Softwood
Grain
Usually straight
Texture
Fine and even
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood resistant to decay
Region
North America
Sustainability
Caution — Protected - old-growth largely preserved; limited commercial harvest from managed stands

Overview

Giant Sequoia is the world's most massive tree species, native to California's Sierra Nevada. The wood is lightweight, easy to work, and moderately durable. Commercial harvest is limited as most groves are protected; wood comes from managed stands or salvaged logs.

Heartwood is light reddish-brown to pinkish-brown. Sapwood is pale cream to white. Density averages 415 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 480 lbf. Fine, even texture with usually straight grain. Low shrinkage. Lightweight for a softwood.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Low - soft wood

Gluing

Excellent gluing properties

Finishing

Good - takes stain and finish well

Steam Bending

Moderate - can steam bend when clear

Scent

Mild, pleasant cedar-like aroma when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to work
  • Resistant to decay
  • Historically significant

Weaknesses

  • Limited availability
  • Can be brittle
  • Often knotty
  • Protected species

Common Uses

Shingles · Fencing · Construction · Veneer · Decorative objects · Carving