This Coast Redwood was planted in the 1970s by Herbert Hechenbleikner, a biology professor who founded the UNCC Botanical Gardens. He was also a good friend of the VanLandingham family, which in the 1960s allowed the VanLandingham grounds to be converted into a living laboratory for UNCC. All of the original Treasure Trees onsite -- #078, #079, #080, #081, #082, #083 -- were planted in the early 1970s under Hechenbleikner’s direction. In order to plant this Coast Redwood, the entire area was excavated and volcanic soil laid out so that the tree could prosper in the North Carolina climate. An ice storm in 2002 coated the limbs with heavy ice and some fell, splitting the trunk in the middle. To save the tree, Heartwood Tree Service removed the trunk from the split. As a result, the tree is dramatically shorter but still stands today at the pond next to Nassau Boulevard.

Statistics (1997)

• Circumference (In.): 57"
• Height (Ft.): 56'
• Avg. Crown Spread (Ft.): 27'
• Total Points: 120

More Information

• Nominated By: Mark Gilleskie
• Year Added: 1997
• Owned By: VLE Partners LLC
• Current condition: Poor
• Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
• Property Type: Private
• Nearest Address: Private Property
• Ecological Value: Coast Redwoods are commonly seen in the state parks of northern California and are known for their large size, sometimes over 300 feet tall. It is rare to see a Coast Redwood in the southeast as they prefer cool, moist temperatures.