What Are The Largest And Smallest Trees In The World?
Among tall trees, Australia’s eucalyptus stands high. A century ago one was reported to measure 433 feet (132 meters) to the point where its top had been broken off. Though there is doubt today about the accuracy of this measurement, there is no question that Australia’s eucalypti are among the tallest trees in the world. The tallest presently living trees are thought to be the coast redwoods (Sequoia sermpervirens) that grow to exceptional heights in the fog-shrouded valleys of the northern California coast. Shadowy fluted columns of these graceful trees rise perfectly straight for as much as 200 feet (60 meters) before the first lateral branches reach out to form a high green vault over the forest’s peaceful floor. The tallest known redwood, discovered as recently as 1963, rises to a height of 366 feet (112 meters). In striking contrast are nearby pygmy forests, where a grown man can bend down to touch the tops of trees that were growing before he was born. While visiting the towerin
