The Metasequoia genus was first described in the 1940s. This "living fossil" flourished in North America during the Miocene (25 to 5 million years ago). The Earth was significantly warmer during this time period, meaning this genus of trees was able to grow far into what is now northern Canada.
The world believed Metasequoia glyptostroboides was an extinct species until its rediscovery in a secluded area of China in 1944. Seeds from this tree were brought back to the United States where they were propagated at various universities in an attempt to expand the species. You are able to see the trees growing today, similar to the only living species of Gingko sp., Gingko biloba. This ancient redwood is a rapid-growing tree in the conifer family, similar to the California redwood. The Metasequoia sp. was named the Oregon state fossil back in 2005 but can be found in neighboring states such as Idaho, Montana, and Washington.
Length: 3.7 x 2.3 in.
Weight: 5.2 oz
Fossil Type & Species: Compression & Metasequoia sp.
Location: Oregon, United States
You will receive the fossil pictured. Colors may vary based on screen size and resolution.