Redwood is a coniferous tree outstanding for its large size, sprouting capacity, and the physical characteristics of its wood. The heartwood has a range of reddish hues, is straight-grained, and has a high degree of resistance to decay. Redwood is used chiefly in high-quality materials for building construction. Low shrinkage, resistance to decay, and lack of odor and taste make the heartwood useful in products for storing liquid and solid food. The northern California coast is the natural range of the coastal redwood tree.