Tallow tree
Triadica sebifera (L.) Small
Evans, C.W., C.T. Bargeron, D.J. Moorhead & G.K. Douce. 2005. Invasive Weeds in Georgia. The Bugwood Network, The University of Georgia.
Tallow tree, also called popcorn tree, is a deciduous tree reaching 60 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. Leaves are heart-shaped with a long pointed tip. The noticeable male flowers are yellowish and occur on long, dangling spikes. the three-lobed fruits are found in clusters at the end of branches. The fruits turn from green to black and split to reveal three waxy popcorn-like seeds.
Tallow tree is native to China and was first introduced into America in South Carolina during the 1700s. The USDA recommended planting this tree for seed oil from 1920 to 1940. It is currently still being sold as an ornamental. It occurs throughout the southeastern United States and is common in South Georgia.
Tallow tree invades wet areas such as stream banks and ditches but can also invade drier upland sites. It can tolerate salty soils, flooding, and shady environments. Tallow tree is a serious threat because of its ability to invade high quality, undisturbed forests. Seed is dispersed both by birds and by water. Tallow tree can displace native vegetation as well as alter soil conditions due to the high amount of tannins present in the leaf litter.
Recommended herbicides for control:
Extensive infestations: soil treatment – Velpar L
Trees: injection and cut stump – Arsenal AC, Garlon 3A, Pathfinder II, or Ortho Brush-B-Gone & Enforcer Brush Killer (cut stump)
Saplings: basal spray – Garlon 4 with oil and penetrant
Photo by Chuck Bargeron, UGA
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Photo by David Moorhead, UGA
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Photo by James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service
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