Discover the captivating tale of Vernicia fordii, commonly known as Tung Oil Tree, a unique native of southern China, belonging to the spurge family. Reaching heights of up to 40 feet, this admirable tree displays striking hibiscus-like flowers characterized by white petals and vibrant red centers, blooming before the foliage emerges. Adaptable to various environments, it thrives both under full sun and as an understory tree, yet exhibits limited cold tolerance.
Renowned for its seeds abundant in unsaturated oils, Tung Oil Tree has been a cornerstone in the production of diverse industrial products including lacquers, varnishes, linoleum, oilcloth, resins, paints, greases, brake linings, polishes, and artificial leather. The early 20th century saw a significant import of these oils to the U.S., with Gulf Coast farmers cultivating over 10,000 acres by the 1920s. However, with the advent of synthetic alternatives in the 1940s, its economic viability waned, leading to its classification as an invasive species in parts of the Southeastern U.S