Definition of redwood

The scientific name of the tallest trees in the world, which belong to the species Sequoia sempervirens, is Redwood. This common name, "Redwood," was coined by the indigenous peoples of the Californian Coast Range, who have traditionally used it for centuries. The name "Redwood" comes from the reddish-brown color of the tree's bark, which is unique for a coniferous tree. The bark, which can be several feet thick in mature trees, protects the Redwood from wildfires and provides a habitat for various native species. The indigenous peoples also used the inner bark of Redwoods as a source of food and medicine. Today, Redwoods are not just important for their cultural heritage but also for their ecological significance, as they store large amounts of carbon and provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.