Polyspora Axillaris

Description

Polyspora Axillaris, also known as the Chinese Tallow Tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Theaceae family. It is native to China and is commonly found in southern China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It grows up to 8 meters in height and has an oval-shaped crown. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, and the leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic in shape. It produces fragrant, white, single or double flowers that bloom in the spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Chinese Tallow Tree has an oval-shaped crown and grows up to 8 meters in height. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, and the leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic in shape. They can grow up to 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, turning yellow, orange, and red in the fall. It produces fragrant, white, single or double flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are about 3 cm in diameter and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit is a capsule that is about 3 cm in diameter and contains three seeds that are coated in white wax.

Care Guide

The Chinese Tallow Tree is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:

• Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The Chinese Tallow Tree grows well in well-draining, slightly acidic soil.
• Sunlight: Plant your tree in full sun or partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: It can grow well in zones 8 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Chinese Tallow Tree is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this plant:

• Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cause leaf curling and distortion. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Spider Mites: These tiny, sap-sucking pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant.
• Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not overwatered.

Habitat

The Chinese Tallow Tree is native to southern China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Chinese Tallow Tree invasive?

A: Yes, the Chinese Tallow Tree is considered invasive in some areas, such as the southeastern United States.

Q: Can the Chinese Tallow Tree be grown in a container?

A: Yes, the Chinese Tallow Tree can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full potential size.

Q: Can the Chinese Tallow Tree be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, the Chinese Tallow Tree can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.

Q: Is the Chinese Tallow Tree toxic to pets?

A: Yes, the Chinese Tallow Tree is toxic to pets if ingested.

Related Plants

• Camellia sinensis
• Thea sinensis
• Camellia japonica
• Camellia sasanqua

References

• “Polyspora axillaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287636&isprofile=0&pt=2.
• “Polyspora axillaris.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/polyspora-axillaris.
• “Chinese Tallow Tree.” The Tree Center. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.thetreecenter.com/chinese-tallow-tree/.