Stratosphere Giant facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stratosphere Giant |
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|---|---|
| Species | Coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) |
| Height | 113.11 m (371.1 ft) |
The Stratosphere Giant is a very tall tree. For a while, it was known as the tallest tree in the whole world! It is a type of tree called a Coast redwood (its scientific name is Sequoia sempervirens).
This amazing tree was found in July 2000 by a person named Chris Atkins. It was growing near Bull Creek in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. When it was first found, it measured about 112.34 meters (which is about 368.6 feet) tall. That's taller than a 30-story building! The tree kept growing, and by 2010, it was 113.11 meters (371.1 feet) tall.
What Makes Stratosphere Giant Special?
The Stratosphere Giant has some interesting features. It has three large bumps, called burls, on one side of its trunk. These burls are special growths on the tree. Many other very tall trees grow around the Stratosphere Giant, making it part of a forest of giants.
To keep the tree safe, its exact location is a secret. This is because the tree has shallow roots, and too many visitors walking around it could cause damage. Keeping its spot hidden helps protect this natural wonder.
The Tallest Tree Now
The Stratosphere Giant was the world's tallest known tree for a few years. However, on August 25, 2006, an even taller redwood tree was discovered. This new tree is named Hyperion. It was also found by Chris Atkins, along with Michael Taylor.
Hyperion is located in the Redwood National Park. It measures an incredible 115.55 meters (379.1 feet) tall! This measurement was carefully checked with a tape measure to make sure it was correct. Besides Hyperion, two other trees in the same forest were also found to be taller than the Stratosphere Giant. So, while Stratosphere Giant is still incredibly tall, Hyperion now holds the record for the tallest living tree.
