An albino chimera redwood stands 52 feet tall in Cotati, CA displaying both green foliage and distinct white leaves. This chimera dramatically shows its mixture of two genetically distinct tissues. It is incredibly rare and unfortunately may become even rarer.

The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) has determined that the Cotati chimera is too close to its eventual rail line and seeks the redwood’s removal. Tom Stapleton, an arborist and passionate advocate for rare redwoods like the Cotati chimera, says the redwood is irreplaceable and seeks support to transplant it out of harms way.

Can we successfully transplant a 52 foot redwood? I certainly don’t know, but why wouldn’t we risk it?!