Plant Profile     

Will feature a different plant each month from one of these categories

                           THIS MONTH

Sapium sebiferum    

Common name: Chinese Tallow Tree, Vegetable Tallow or Wax Tree

Height: 6-10 m, in optimum conditions can reach up to about 14m

Propagation: Semi-ripe cuttings in summer or seed in spring

Soils: Well drained with plenty of organic matter.

Aspect: Plant in full sun position.

The first thing that went in to my last two gardens was a Chinese Tallow Tree, I have just built again and no prizes for guessing what I am planting in front of my bedroom window. When most people think autumn colour they think cold climates but this tree actually colours better in warm climates and will not do as well if it gets to cold, plus it does not mind coastal conditions so that makes it pretty much perfect for our gardens. If you are not sold already here are a few other  points, they are shallow rooted, non-invasive and fairly fast growing for a smaller tree. The specimens pictured left are in the grounds of the Town of Victoria Park, I gave them a call and had a chat to Mark to get the low down. These trees where planted about 4 years ago from semi-advanced stock and he was telling me from inside the building as the sun moves over in the afternoon it is like they are aflame. A good tip he also shared with us is the fact that these trees can colour either in yellows through to fiery orange, reds and even burgundy or purple as seen below so it is a good idea to choose them in autumn colour if you are after a certain shade. They have a small catkin like greenish yellow flower in late spring and the fruit in autumn is actually three seeds in a white wax substance, this has been used to make soap and candles. The pointed heart shaped leaves make this one of my favourite trees and in summer the colour is quite bright and fresh. You will find in warmer climates and as the tree matures they tend to be more semi-deciduous. 

They are a good choice to block summer sun, let winter sun filter in and add some garden colour.