Chinese Tallow
Triadica sebifera
Also listed as Sapium sebiferum, Croton sebiferum
Also known as Chinese Tallow Tree, Popcorn Tree, Candleberry-tree
Climate Match for your location
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A fast-growing deciduous tree with attractive fall color and small flowers followed by waxy white berries. Highly invasive in warm climates; use with caution.
Why grow it
Chinese tallow produces reliable fall color and ornamental waxy berries in a fast-growing deciduous form, making it useful where rapid canopy establishment is desired. However, for most permaculture contexts, native or non-invasive alternatives with similar seasonal interest (such as native dogwoods or viburnums in warm regions) offer comparable benefits without ecological risk.
Watch out for
This tree self-seeds readily and can spread vegetatively from root fragments, so even in regions where it is not listed as noxious, containment should be part of the planting plan. Monitor seedlings in nearby areas and remove them promptly if they appear outside intended zones.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Central and Eastern China
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A fast-growing deciduous tree with attractive fall color and small flowers followed by waxy white berries. Highly invasive in warm climates; use with caution.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Chinese Tallow grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Chinese tallow produces reliable fall color and ornamental waxy berries in a fast-growing deciduous form, making it useful where rapid canopy establishment is desired. However, for most permaculture contexts, native or non-invasive alternatives with similar seasonal interest (such as native dogwoods or viburnums in warm regions) offer comparable benefits without ecological risk.
Watch out for
This tree self-seeds readily and can spread vegetatively from root fragments, so even in regions where it is not listed as noxious, containment should be part of the planting plan. Monitor seedlings in nearby areas and remove them promptly if they appear outside intended zones.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Central and Eastern China
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
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