This deciduous tree has a single trunk with spreading branches that form a rounded crown. It has heart-shaped dark green leaves that turn vibrant red in autumn and the tiny yellow-green flowers appear in a spike during early summer followed by capsular fruit.

Hardiness zones 8 to 11

Sapium sebiferum is naturally found in southern China growing in woodlands in well drained fertile moist soil in an open sunny position and is frost tolerant but drought tender.

The Chinese Tallow Tree is grown for its habit and autumn foliage colour. It is planted in parks and gardens as a small shade tree or used in groups for screening. It is also grown as a street tree establishing in 2 to 4 years and is long lived. It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions. ID 341

Note:
This plant is commonly cultivated on the eastern coast of Australia, but has become a noxious weed in Florida, USA.

Sapium(sa-PEE-um)sebiferum (ser-BIF-er-um)

'Sapium': Latin sapo - soap (refers to the use of derivatives of this plant as a soap); 'sebiferum': tallow-bearing (refers to the waxy coating on the seeds).

Euphorbiaceae(yoo-for-bee-AY-see-ee)
Spurge Family