Redwood

Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), famous from California, can grow in Hawaiʻi’s cooler, moist uplands. Experimental stands exist on Hawaiʻi Island, though they are not extensive.

Redwood is naturally decay-resistant, with lightweight, straight-grained lumber ideal for outdoor construction or siding. On Hawaiʻi Island, some historical plantings took place in higher elevations as part of forestry trials. Commercial harvest is rare, as stands are relatively small and often in demonstration or conservation areas. Occasionally, a redwood that requires removal might be milled for specialty use. Despite potential wood value, redwood remains a curiosity rather than a mainstream forestry crop on the island.