The Tree
It reaches a height of 23m to 37m and a diameter of 0.5m to 0.75m.

The Timber
The tree receives its name from the colour of its bark which is a distinctive reddish-brown, the timber resembling European redwood (P. sylvestris). The sapwood is wide, often 75mm, of a pale yellow colour, the heartwood being pale brown with a reddish tinge to reddish-yellow, with a straight grain and medium to fine texture. The wood is somewhat resinous, but not enough to spoil the wood surface. There is a good deal of contrast in colour between the early-wood and late-wood in the growth-rings, especially in the heartwood, producing a figure on longitudinal surfaces. The wood weighs about 450 kg/m3 when dried.

Drying
Dries easily and uniformly, with little checking, twisting or cupping. Kiln-drying improves its finishing qualities by setting the resin.

Strength
Although softer than European redwood, its general strength properties are about equal to that species.

Working Qualities
Good - Works easily with both hand and machine tools, and finishes smoothly. It can be stained, painted, varnished or polished, takes nails and screws satisfactorily and can be glued.