Metasequoia glyptostroboides

A vigorous deciduous conifer of upright growth forming a spire like conical crown, with bright, lush green foliage turning a rich tawny-pink and old gold in autumn. Trunk usually becomes splendidly and sometimes spectacularly fluted, with cinnamon-brown bark. Caused a sensation when discovered in central China as recently as 1941. Virtually any soil or site, but better with moisture. It grows to its greatest size in the south with shelter, moisture and warmer summers, though is really very tolerant.