Believed to have been planted on the front lawns of the previous Birdcages in 1863, this sequoia tree (Sequoiadendron gigantea) is over 30 metres (100 feet) tall and still growing in front of the present day Parliament Buildings. Also known as a coast redwood, the sequoia is common throughout the coastal areas of California, but can be successfully planted and grown in British Columbia as well. Sequoias are considered to be one of longest living and tallest trees in the world, with some living close to 2000 years and others reaching a height of over 90 metres (300 feet).
The sequoia at the Parliament Buildings also acts as the provincial Christmas tree, being illuminated with colourful lights each winter.
In early December, the Speaker hosts a ceremonial lighting of the sequoia tree on the front lawn as part of the national Christmas Lights Across Canada celebration. For the holiday season in December, additional coloured LED lights are added to the Parliament Buildings and nearby grounds. Red and green bulbs light up the main dome of the Parliament Buildings and the lamp standards on the front driveway while multi-coloured bulbs illuminate the Ceremonial Entrance.
