This species prefers a wide range of climates and can tolerate both high and low temperatures. It can grow from coastal areas to elevations of 2000 m. It is drought tolerant and can also withstand frost. It can survive in areas with brief lows of -10 °C.
Common name: Chinese tallow tree
The Chinese Tallow Tree (Sapium sebiferum) is a deciduous tree native to the Far East. It grows fast, reaching heights of up to 8 meters, and is disease resistant. The tree is known for its white wax-coated seeds, which can be used for soap and candle-making. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils and can withstand drought, frost, and brief periods of low temperatures. The tree's foliage turns a brilliant red and bronze in autumn, adding to its visual appeal. It is also valued for its firewood, honey, and pollen production.
Sapium sebiferum
China
Other relevant information: - The Chinese Tallow Tree is also known as the Popcorn Tree due to its popcorn-like appearance of the fruit capsules. - It is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including the southern United States, where it can outcompete native plants. - The tree's seeds are dispersed by birds, which contributes to its spread. - The Chinese Tallow Tree is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of climates and soil conditions. - It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. - The tree is a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
A native of the Far East, this species tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor drainage and saline soils. It will grow from the coast to elevations of 2000 m. Its lower rainfall tolerance is probably somewhat below 500 mm.
Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
A native of the Far East, this species is a deciduous, fast growing, disease resistant tree, which rarely attains heights greater than 8 m and width of 5 m. It tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor drainage and saline soils. It will grow from the coast to elevations of 2000 m. It is drought tolerant and also tolerant of frost, and in the dormant state will withstand brief lows of - 10 °C. It is generally considered to be a high moisture plant and trees have survived for more than 2 years in areas flooded by dam construction. Its lower rainfall tolerance is probably somewhat below 500 mm.
Fruiting capsules consist of 3 seeds each covered with a white vegetable wax. This coating is used for soap and making candles in its native China. The wax can also be used as a substitute for lard or cocoa butter. In autumn the foliage turns a brilliant mixture of red and bronze, even in warmer areas where other trees remain green. This colour contrasts well with the white, wax - coated seeds.
It is a good firewood (4134 - 4277 kcal/kg), the dry wood burning well and producing a pleasant odour. Over a 4 year growing season, firewood yields averaged 22 cubic metres/ha/ year. Roots and stumps cut at any time of the year coppice prolifically (26 cubic metres/ha/ year has been recorded). The wood has been used for making implement handles as well as for carving. It is not a good external timber, but may be suitable as pulp. It is a major honey and pollen plant. The honey is moderately dark and exceptionally flavourful.