Albino Sempervirens Traditional Geocache

Albinoism is a rare genetic defect in any species. In Redwoods it means that the needles of the tree do not contain chlorophyll.

So how does it survive? All Albino Redwoods are saprophytic. In other words, they get the nourishment they need from a host tree. In the case of this particular Albino, the host was cut down, but still supplies enough nourishment for the Albino to survive.

Of the seventeen known cases of Albino Redwoods, there are two documented cases in the Big Sur area. The other Albino is a difficult hike into the heart of the Ventana Wilderness. I thought people would appreciate the easy approach to this one.

Parking is available off of Hwy one, and a staircase leads down from the campground office to the campground if you prefer not driving down the short steep road that leads to the Albino.

The hint is a dead giveaway as the area can be quite urban during crowded weekends. Please replace the cache as good or better than you found it.

Please be gentle with the tree. There should be no reason to molest it. Container is a small round metal container about 4-5 inches in diameter.