Redwood lumber is valued in construction and design because of its natural resistance to decay, insects, and warping. The rich, reddish-brown color and straight grain create a distinctive appearance sought after for outdoor applications like decking and siding. This material is also known for its light weight and structural stability, making it a favored building product. Understanding the source of this unique timber requires identifying the specific tree species and the distinct geographical area where it grows.
Identifying the True Redwood Species
The source of virtually all commercial redwood lumber is the Coast Redwood, scientifically known as Sequoia sempervirens. This species holds the record as the tallest tree on Earth, with individuals reaching heights over 380 feet. The wood’s commercial value comes from its heartwood, which contains natural extractives, specifically polyphenols. These polyphenols give the wood its reddish color and inherent durability against rot and insect attack.
It is important to differentiate this species from its close relative, the Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum), which is sometimes confused with the Coast Redwood. The Giant Sequoia is the most massive tree by volume but grows in a different inland habitat along the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Wood from the Giant Sequoia is protected and is not used for commercial timber because it is often too brittle and fibrous for standard construction purposes.
The Natural Habitat and Range
The Coast Redwood thrives in a narrow, linear geographic range that is dependent on specific coastal climatic conditions. This natural distribution stretches for approximately 450 miles, running from the Big Sur area of Central California up into the southwestern corner of coastal Oregon. The range is limited to a band of land less than 30 miles wide along the Pacific coastline.
The existence of this forest ecosystem relies on the cool, damp air and heavy precipitation provided by the Pacific Ocean. Summer fog is an important environmental factor, as the trees absorb moisture directly from the fog. This absorption is crucial for their survival during the dry California summer season. This combination of high rainfall, moderate temperatures, and persistent fog creates the ideal environment for the Coast Redwood to reach its enormous size.
Modern Sourcing and Supply Chain
The redwood lumber reaching the market today comes from three primary sources, reflecting a shift toward sustainability. The majority of current commercial timber is harvested from second-growth forests and privately owned tree farms. These managed lands operate under strict California Forest Practice Rules and third-party certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Companies managing these certified forests focus on long-term health, harvesting at levels below the annual growth rate and replanting seedlings at high ratios. Old-growth redwood, the ancient trees that were the historical source of lumber, is now protected. Roughly a quarter of the total redwood forestland is preserved in state and national parks where commercial logging is prohibited.
A third source of redwood is reclaimed or salvaged material, which provides access to dense, high-quality old-growth wood without cutting down standing ancient trees. This wood is recovered from historic structures, such as decommissioned bridges, old water tanks, and barns, or from “sinker logs.” Sinker logs are naturally fallen trees and logs that were left behind decades ago. This salvaged material is prized for its character and superior durability, often finding its way into high-end architectural projects.