We have Chinese Tallow tree here, known as Triadica Sebifera. It’s actually really easy to see where the name, Chinese Tallow, comes from. So, let’s break it down. First, the plant is native to central China. And Second, the white covering of the seeds, contains the waxy tallow that has been used to make soaps and candles. Hence, the name Chinese Tallow. Simple as that.

One thing to keep in mind is that Chinese Tallow is meant to be observed, not eaten because it is toxic. Do not eat any part of the plant. You won’t feel well. And it may be deadly. With that said, it is OK to touch the plant, so feel free to at any time.

As you can see, the leaves are heart-shaped and are usually 2 inches long and 3 inches wide. And the margins are entire, meaning they are without teeth. Also notice how the yellow veins are arranged. A network of veins resembles a net, meaning the plant is a dicot. During the fall, when the leaves turn orange, it is a thing of beauty, displaying its brilliant foliage.

Also, you may or may not see the flower, but Chinese Tallow is what we call monoecious, meaning it has separate pollen and the seed bearing flowers on the same plant. The pollen producing flower, called staminate, is greenish-yellow borne on spikes up to 8 inches long. And each seeding-producing flower, called pistillate, is located at the base of the staminate spike and has a three-valved capsule about ½ inch long and about ¾ inch wide. During the fall, when it matures, the color changes from green to black, and when it falls off, it reveals its seed that has a white tallow containing covering which resembles popcorn. Therefore, the plant is also known as popcorn tree.

Chinese Tallow is a very adaptable plant that thrives in various environments. Also the plant grows very rapidly. It may reach its reproductive age in only three years and remain productive for over 100 years. In other words, a mature tree annually produces an average of 100,000 seeds.

Its growth has posed threat to natural vegetation. In Gulf Coast states, especially Florida, where many Chinese Tallow were planted to establish a local soap industry in the 1900s, the plant has reduced the plant diversity and poses a huge problem. With the current methods, they are virtually impossible to eliminate. Maybe you can one day become famous for providing the key to its termination

Thanks for listening to me and if you have any further question, please visit dhsplants.wikispaces.com/chinese_tallow2. Have a good one everyone.

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