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Tung oil tree

How to identify Tung oil tree (Vernicia fordii)

Tung oil tree, also known as Chinese wood-oil tree, Tung nut

Tung oil tree reaches heights of up to 40 feet (12 meters) and is known for its distinctive hibiscus-like flowers. These blooms are white with a vivid red center and emerge before the foliage, providing a striking contrast. With a preference for full sunlight, tung oil tree is also adaptable as an understory tree. Its foliage, however, will not survive in harsh cold climates. Key identifying aspects include its growth habit and the unique seasonal flowering pattern.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Tung oil tree

1

Distinct hibiscus-like white flowers with vivid red centers

2

Heart-shaped leaves with 3-lobed form, adorned with red glands

3

Large, globular fruit with segmented parts containing solitary seed

4

Medium-thick stems with reddish lenticels and prominent leaf scars

5

Smooth bark with brownish gray hue, exuding milky white sap when incised

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Detailed Traits of Tung oil tree

Leaf Features

The leaves of tung oil tree are alternately arranged, simple, and long-stalked with a heart-shaped, sometimes shallowly 3-lobed form. They measure between 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) long and 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) wide. These dark green leaves feature long petioles adorned with two conspicuous red glands at their base. Both leaf surfaces may have sparse hairs. The combination of size, shape, and distinctive glands assists in identifying this plant.

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Flower Features

The flowers of tung oil tree are pale pink to white, adorned with striking red veins. These blooms feature 5-7 petals arranged in large clusters, creating a visually appealing display. Each flower measures approximately 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) across and is characterized by 2 green or reddish sepals. They emit a delicate fragrance and bloom profusely before the emergence of leaves, adding beauty to early spring landscapes.

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Stem Features

Tung oil tree stems are dark gray-brown and feature numerous reddish lenticels, giving them a dotted appearance. The stems are medium-thick, typically about 0.4-0.8 inches (1-2 cm) in diameter, and have a rough texture. Branching occurs in a somewhat regular, alternately arranged pattern. Additionally, the presence of circular leaf scars can be observed. These scars are prominent and serve as a distinctive identifying characteristic of the plant's stems.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of tung oil tree is characteristically large and globular, approximating 2 to 3 inches in diameter. On maturity, it segments into distinctive parts, which house the central feature of this fruit: a solitary, substantial seed. The outer surface of these fruits demonstrates a texture that might vary throughout its growth and eventual ripening stages. The colors of the fruit can also provide clues to its ripeness, with a possible progression of hues as it develops.

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Key Facts About Tung oil tree

Attributes of Tung oil tree
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 3.5 cm
Flower Color
White
Fruit Color
Red
Green
Burgundy
Stem Color
Green
Silver
White
Leaf type
Deciduous
The Toxicity of Tung oil tree
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Scientific Classification of Tung oil tree

Family
Spurge
Icon allow
Species
Tung oil tree (Vernicia fordii)
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Distribution Map of Tung oil tree

Tung oil tree is native to several regions in Asia, where it also sees significant cultivation. It has been introduced across various continents, from South America to Africa and Oceania. In certain areas, tung oil tree may be considered to have a potential impact on local ecosystems. As for cultivation, tung oil tree is a plant that is actively grown in various parts of its introduced range due to its valued properties.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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