| Hyperion | |
| Mapframe: | no |
| Species: | Coast redwood |
| Binomial: | Sequoia sempervirens |
| Height: | (2019) |
| Coordinates: | 41.205°N -125°W (center of closed area) |
| Map: | California |
| Map Size: | 160 |
| Relief: | 1 |
Hyperion is a coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) in California that is the world's tallest known living tree, measured at 116.07m (380.81feet) tall in 2019.[1] [2]
Hyperion was discovered on August 25, 2006, by naturalists Chris Atkins and Michael Taylor.[3] The tree height of 115.55m (379.1feet) was verified by Stephen Sillett in 2006 using both a laser range finder and a fiberglass tape to measure the tree from the base to the crown.[4] [5] The tree has grown since then to reach 116.07m (380.81feet) recorded in 2019. Hyperion was found in a remote area of Redwood National Park, inside of the originally designated park boundaries of 1968.[6] The park also houses the second-, fourth- and fifth-tallest known trees, coast redwoods named Helios, Icarus, and Daedalus, which respectively measured 377, 371 and 363 feet in 2022.[7] [8]
The tree was named after the titan Hyperion from Greek mythology.
Hyperion is estimated to be between 600 and 800 years old[1] [8] [9] and contain 18600abbr=onNaNabbr=on of wood.[10] The exact location of Hyperion is nominally secret but is available via internet search.[11] However, in July 2022, the Redwood Park superintendent closed the entire area around the tree, citing "devastation of the habitat surrounding Hyperion" caused by visitors. Its base was trampled by the overuse and as a result ferns no longer grow around the tree. Anyone who gets too close could face up to six months in jail and a $5,000 maximum fine.[12] [13] [14]