Vernicia fordii
Summary
| Resource Type | Organism |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | V. fordii |
| Genus | Vernicia |
| Species | fordii |
| Common Name | Tung tree |
| Organism Image |  |
| Cross Reference | |
| Description | Vernicia fordii, also known of the tung tree, is a deciduous tree native to southwest Asia that can grow to 20m in height. It is a fruit bearing tree, whose seeds contain oil used for a variety of purposes including ingredient in paint, varnish, wood varnish, and caulk. Vernicia fordii's seed, seed oil, and leaves are all poisonous due to large amounts of a toxic compound known as saponin. The tung tree is tolerable in most soil conditions and grows bet in full sunlight, but can also grow in the understory. Vernicia fordii is also considered an invasive species in some areas including the southern United States. Sources: |
