Metasequoia glyptostroboides - Dawn Redwood
Dawn Redwoods known to have existed over 50 million years ago, were thought to have been extinct and only exist in fossil remains, until a stand of trees was discovered in China in the 1940s. It is related to and resembles Bald Cypress and Redwood trees with a conical shape reaching up to 100 feet tall. The first seedlings introduced to the United States were planted on the campuses of UC Berkley and University of Oregon in Eugene in 1948 and are still there today. The color of the leaves changes through the seasons, first appearing as bright green buds and leaves signaling spring, they mature to a deep green through summer, and then turn a red-bronze color in the fall before falling off. The use of the adjective “dawn” in the tree’s common name was meant to point to the tree’s early fossil record. The Dawn Redwood is the only living tree species in its Genus, Metasequoia. However, more than 20 additional species have been discovered in fossil form!
Rayshaun Landrum
Associate Landscape Architect, City of Detroit
Rayshaun Landrum was born and raised in Detroit. His love of Detroit runs deep. His favorite memory of the Dequindre Cut was walking his dog Mars for the first time in heavy foot traffic -- he was thrilled to see so many Detroiters enjoying the outdoors and a plan come to life. When not designing parks for the City of Detroit, Rayshaun enjoys creating musical playlists that fit different moods.
Rayshaun’s favorite tree:
“Paper Birch because of its distinct trunk characteristics.”
This Exhibit Took Place Along the Detroit Riverfront September 1-30