The Metasequoia glyptostroboides Gold Rush: A Closer Look at the World's Most Valuable Tree

The world has seen its fair share of gold rushes, from the California Gold Rush of 1848 to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896. But what if we told you that there's a new gold rush happening right now, and it involves trees? That's right, we're talking about the Metasequoia glyptostroboides Gold Rush.

What is Metasequoia glyptostroboides?

Metasequoia glyptostroboides, also known as dawn redwood, is a deciduous coniferous tree native to China. It was thought to be extinct until a small grove was discovered in the Hubei province in 1944. Since then, it has been widely cultivated around the world for its beauty and hardiness.

The Rise of Metasequoia glyptostroboides

In recent years, the demand for Metasequoia glyptostroboides has skyrocketed. This is due to its rarity and the fact that it is one of the few deciduous conifers in the world. Its unique appearance, which includes feathery foliage and a majestic shape, has made it a popular choice for landscaping and ornamental purposes.

The Value of Metasequoia glyptostroboides

The value of Metasequoia glyptostroboides has increased dramatically in recent years. In 2017, a single specimen was sold for $60,000 at a nursery auction in Japan. This was followed by another sale in 2019, where a larger specimen was sold for a staggering $130,000. This has led to a gold rush of sorts, with people all over the world trying to get their hands on this rare and valuable tree.

How to Grow Metasequoia glyptostroboides

While growing Metasequoia glyptostroboides is not difficult, it does require some specific conditions. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but too much will cause the tree to become spindly and weak. Regular watering and fertilization are also important for the health of the tree.

Propagation Methods

Metasequoia glyptostroboides can be propagated through seed or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the fall, and cuttings can be taken in the spring or early summer. It's important to note that seed-grown trees may not have the same desirable traits as the parent tree, so cuttings are often preferred.

The Future of Metasequoia glyptostroboides

As the demand for Metasequoia glyptostroboides continues to grow, there are concerns about its future. While the tree is not currently endangered, over-harvesting could lead to a decline in the wild population. Additionally, the high value of the tree could lead to theft and illegal trade.

Conservation Efforts

To combat these issues, conservation efforts are underway to protect the wild population of Metasequoia glyptostroboides. These efforts include reforestation projects and initiatives to crack down on illegal harvesting and trade.

The Benefits of Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Beyond its beauty and value, Metasequoia glyptostroboides also has numerous environmental benefits. Its large size and fast growth rate make it an effective carbon sink, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, its deep roots help to prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality.

Other Uses

Metasequoia glyptostroboides is not just valuable as a landscaping tree. It also has numerous other uses, such as in timber production and traditional medicine. Its wood is strong and durable, making it ideal for use in construction and furniture-making. In traditional Chinese medicine, the bark and leaves of the tree are used to treat a variety of ailments.

The Metasequoia glyptostroboides Gold Rush: A Double-Edged Sword

While the Metasequoia glyptostroboides Gold Rush has brought attention to this rare and valuable tree, it has also brought with it some negative consequences. The high value of the tree has led to theft and illegal trade, which can harm wild populations and lead to a decline in genetic diversity.

Balancing Conservation and Profit

To ensure the continued success of Metasequoia glyptostroboides, it's important to strike a balance between conservation and profit. This means implementing measures to protect wild populations while also encouraging sustainable cultivation and harvesting practices.


The Metasequoia glyptostroboides Gold Rush is a fascinating phenomenon that highlights the value of biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts. While the high value of the tree has led to some negative consequences, it has also brought attention to an often-overlooked species and its many benefits.

FAQs

1. Is Metasequoia glyptostroboides endangered?

No, Metasequoia glyptostroboides is not currently considered endangered. However, over-harvesting and illegal trade could threaten wild populations in the future.

2. How much does a Metasequoia glyptostroboides tree cost?

The cost of a Metasequoia glyptostroboides tree can vary widely depending on its size and location. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

3. What is the best way to propagate Metasequoia glyptostroboides?

Metasequoia glyptostroboides can be propagated through seed or cuttings, but cuttings are often preferred as they produce trees with more desirable traits.

4. What are some of the environmental benefits of Metasequoia glyptostroboides?

Metasequoia glyptostroboides is an effective carbon sink and helps to prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality.

5. How can we ensure the continued success of Metasequoia glyptostroboides?

To ensure the continued success of Metasequoia glyptostroboides, it's important to strike a balance between conservation and profit. This means implementing measures to protect wild populations while also encouraging sustainable cultivation and harvesting practices.