Dawn Redwood 'Matthaei Broom'

About this plant

Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Matthaei Broom' is a unique, slow-growing cultivar of the prehistoric Dawn Redwood, known for its dense, upright, broom-like habit. Unlike its towering parent, this miniature marvel maintains a manageable size, making it an exceptional choice for smaller gardens, rockeries, or as a striking container specimen. Its soft, feathery, bright green needles emerge in spring, transitioning to beautiful bronze-orange hues in autumn before gracefully shedding for winter, revealing an attractive, textured bark. This deciduous conifer brings year-round interest and a touch of ancient grandeur without overwhelming your landscape. Its distinctive architectural form provides a strong focal point, while its fine texture softens hardscapes. 'Matthaei Broom' is remarkably adaptable and disease-resistant, thriving in a range of conditions once established. Perfect for collectors or those seeking a unique specimen tree, 'Matthaei Broom' offers a captivating blend of historical significance and modern garden versatility. Its low-maintenance nature and stunning seasonal display make it a prized addition to any discerning plant enthusiast's collection.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. While adaptable, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and fall color. Protect from strong winds when young. Minimal pruning is typically required, primarily for shaping or removing any dead branches. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.