Tung Tree (Vernicia fordii)

Family: Euphorbiaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Vernicia fordii, otherwise known as Tung Tree, is native to southern China, Burma, and northern Vietnam that grows about 20 m in height with a spreading, round crown. It is deciduous, with a smooth and thin bark and alternate, simple, heart-shaped leaves. The flowers are comprised of five pale pink to purple petals with streaks of darker red or purple in the throat. It is monoecious and produced in the inflorescences.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed. There are no more details but the report should be treated with caution since the oil from the seed is said to be poisonous. — There are no more details but the report should be treated with caution since the oil from the seed is said to be poisonous.

Habitat & North American Range

Base of foothills esp. in rocky places, at elevations up to 1,000 metres in W. China. Montane sparse forests at elevations of 200 - 1,500 metres, occasionally to 2,000 metres. (Zone 8)