How to identify Chinese parasol tree (Firmiana simplex)
Chinese parasol tree, also known as Varnish tree, Japanese varnish tree, Wutong
Chinese parasol tree is distinguished by its large, palmate leaves that boast 3 to 5 lobes and span up to 12 inches (30 cm) wide, creating a dense canopy. The tree's stature ranges from 25 to 45 feet (7.6 to 13.7 meters) in height and 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) in width. Its bark and stems exhibit a notable green coloration. During late spring to early summer, chinese parasol tree reveals panicles of white to yellow-green flowers, transitioning to showy seed pods afterwards. In autumn, the foliage turns a striking yellow before shedding, unveiling the tree's distinct structure and green bark.
Large, palmate leaves with 3-5 lobes, reaching 12 inches (30 cm) wide.
Distinctive green bark and stems, with a tree height ranging from 25 to 45 feet (7.6 to 13.7 meters).
Star-shaped flowers with white to yellow-green sepals in terminal panicles up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.
Pod-like fruit, 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) long, with brown seeds and varnish-like liquid in pods.
Stout green stem with circular leaf scars and hairy, reddish-brown bud scales, growing up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
The leaves of chinese parasol tree are large, bold, simple, and alternate, with a palmately lobed structure having 3 to 5 lobes. They measure 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) across and 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) long, with smooth upper surfaces and pubescent undersides. The leaves have entire margins and a cordate base. The veining is palmate, and the fall color is yellow.
Chinese parasol tree's flowers are small, star-shaped, and feature white to creamy or yellow-green sepals arranged in up to 12-inch (30 cm) long terminal panicles. They lack petals and emit a mild fragrance. These flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, typically from May through August. Their unique star-shaped sepals and lack of petals make them easily distinguishable for plant enthusiasts.
The stem of chinese parasol tree is stout and green, characterized by a circular leaf scar, indicating where leaves were once attached. It is generally thick, often reaching up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The stem supports large, round buds that are covered in hairy, reddish-brown scales. The branching pattern is typically irregular, with the main stem exhibiting a strong, upright growth before extending lateral branches. This green coloration and distinctive bud scales are key identifying features.
The fruit of chinese parasol tree is distinctive, appearing in late summer as large, pod-like structures. Each pod measures approximately 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) in length and transforms from a green to brown hue as it matures. Upon ripening, these leathery, dry pods split open into four petal-like segments, exposing a collection of small, round seeds. These seeds, about 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) in diameter, possess a reddish-brown coloration. Within the pods, a brownish, varnish-like liquid can be found, contributing to the unique character of the fruit.
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Scientific Classification of Chinese parasol tree