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Tung oil tree
Also known as: Chinese wood-oil tree, Tung nut
People grow tung oil tree (Vernicia fordii) mostly for the seeds, though some also use it for ornamental purposes. Oil is extracted from its seeds to manufacture anything from varnishes and paints to lacquer and linoleum. The plant is indigenous to China and has been cultivated for thousands of years there.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring, Early summer
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
20 m
Plant Height
4.5 m to 6 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2.5 cm to 3.5 cm
Flower Size
Red, Green, Burgundy
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Green, Silver, White
Stem Color
Deciduous
Leaf type

Images of Tung oil tree

Distribution of Tung oil tree

Distribution Map
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
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Foothills, montane sparse forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Garden Use
The tung oil tree is an interesting ornamental, mainly due to its vibrant springtime flowers and colorful fall foliage. This tree works as a showy specimen that can decorate pathways in pollinator or woodland gardens. Pollinators such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees are drawn to it, but deer won't disturb the foliage.
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Toxicity

Tung oil tree is a highly toxic plant; all parts, especially seeds. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, difficulty breathing, profuse sweating, weakness, and poor reflexes. Contact with sap can result in skin irritation and rashes. Reported as more serious in younger individuals. One seed may be fatal if eaten.
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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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Care Guide for Tung oil tree

Every 2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Tung oil tree originates from subtropical regions, thriving in moderate humidity and tolerating brief droughts. It prefers consistent moisture without waterlogging, requiring watering every two weeks. Efficient irrigation during its growing season is crucial for supporting its lush foliage and seed production.
Fertilize: For optimal growth and fruit yield of tung oil tree, use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, applied in early spring and late summer. Apply 1 pound per inch of trunk diameter, ensuring proper watering post-fertilization and adjusting nitrogen levels seasonally to protect against frost.
Pruning: Tung oil tree is a fast-growing tree with broad leaves and white flower clusters. Prune in early spring for healthy growth by removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas. Regular pruning maintains shape, stimulates flowering, and requires clean tools to prevent infections, sealing large cuts promptly.
Propagation: Tung oil tree is cultivated for its seeds, yielding oil for diverse uses. It prefers well-drained soil and is propagated through seed sowing, enhanced by treatments like scarification or soaking. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and transplant seedlings carefully to promote establishment.
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