Sapium sebiferum

East of Mrak Hall

The Chinese tallow is a tall, narrow, deciduous tree with small heart shaped leaves that have outstanding fall color before they drop.


Botanical Name: Sapium sebiferum
Common Name: Chinese tallow tree
Location: East of Mrak Hall
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Sunset Zones: 8, 9, 12-16, 18-21, H1
Native Range: East Asia
Habitat: Prefers sunny locations with regular water and well-drained soil.
General Habit: Deciduous tree, moderate growth rate to 40 ft., pyramid shape.
Notes: Bright green heart shaped leaves. Flowers are in spikes but insignificant, fruits are hard shelled capsules containing 3 seeds covered in white wax. The sap is considered poisonous. Outstanding fall color. This tree is known to be invasive in parts of the southeastern U.S.A.