What is Chinese Tallowtree?
Triadica sebifera, or Chinese Tallowtree, is a native of China and was introduced into South Carolina in 1776 for ornamental purposes and seed oil production. It invades wet areas such as stream banks and ditches but can also invade drier upland sites. Chinese Tallowtree is a serious threat because of its ability to invade high-quality, undisturbed forests. It can displace native vegetation as well as alter soil conditions due to the high amount of tannins present in the leaf litter.
