Fauna
Plant

Chinese Tallow

Triadica sebifera

Also known as Florida Aspen, Chicken Tree, Gray Popcorn Tree, Candleberry Tree

Chinese tallow trees are fast-growing deciduous trees famous for their brilliant autumn foliage and distinctive white, popcorn-like seeds. Native to eastern Asia, they produce a milky sap that deters herbivores and allows them to rapidly invade disturbed wetlands and upland forests. Their seed capsules remain attached throughout winter, creating persistent seed banks that easily spread via water and birds.

DeciduousInvasiveFall Colors
Chinese Tallow reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
Predators
  • Atta Ants
  • Yellow-shafted Flicker
  • American Robin
ThreatsHerbicide treatments, mechanical cutting, bio-control insects
HabitatsWetlands, stream banks, disturbed areas, coastal forests
Life span30–50 years
Classification
  1. OrderMalpighiales
  2. FamilyEuphorbiaceae
  3. GenusTriadica
  4. SpeciesTriadica sebifera
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Milky sap causes skin irritation and seeds are toxic if ingested; avoid contact and do not ingest.
Why it is dangerous
Contains sap saponins and toxalbumins that cause severe skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by simple heart-shaped leaves, milky sap, and exposed white seeds resembling popcorn.
What to do
Wear gloves and eye protection when trimming or removing this tree to prevent contact with toxic sap.
Responsible observation
  • Identification: Look for broad heart-shaped leaves and dense clusters of white, three-lobed seeds.
  • Management: Avoid planting or transporting seeds, as this aggressive tree smothers native habitats.
  • Safety: Wear heavy gloves when removing branches to protect against the irritating latex sap.
Related species
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