Family: EUPHORBIACEAE
A native of the Far East, this species is a deciduous, fast growing, disease resistant tree, which rarely attains heights greater than 8 m and width of 5 m. It tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor drainage and saline soils. It will grow from the coast to elevations of 2000 m. It is drought tolerant and also tolerant of frost, and in the dormant state will withstand brief lows of - 10 °C. It is generally considered to be a high moisture plant and trees have survived for more than 2 years in areas flooded by dam construction. Its lower rainfall tolerance is probably somewhat below 500 mm.
Fruiting capsules consist of 3 seeds each covered with a white vegetable wax. This coating is used for soap and making candles in its native China. The wax can also be used as a substitute for lard or cocoa butter. In autumn the foliage turns a brilliant mixture of red and bronze, even in warmer areas where other trees remain green. This colour contrasts well with the white, wax - coated seeds.
It is a good firewood (4134 - 4277 kcal/kg), the dry wood burning well and producing a pleasant odour. Over a 4 year growing season, firewood yields averaged 22 cubic metres/ha/ year. Roots and stumps cut at any time of the year coppice prolifically (26 cubic metres/ha/ year has been recorded). The wood has been used for making implement handles as well as for carving. It is not a good external timber, but may be suitable as pulp. It is a major honey and pollen plant. The honey is moderately dark and exceptionally flavourful.