Toxicodendron vernicifluum

Species of flowering plant in the cashew family

Toxicodendron vernicifluum, commonly known as the Chinese lacquer tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. The tree is notable for producing a sap that is used to create lacquer, a durable and glossy finish applied to various objects.

Description

Toxicodendron vernicifluum is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 7 to 13 leaflets that are ovate to lanceolate in shape. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellowish-green in color. The fruit is a small drupe, which is initially green and turns brown as it matures.

Distribution and habitat

The species is found in temperate regions of East Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in well-drained soils and is often found in forests and on hillsides.

Uses

The sap of Toxicodendron vernicifluum is harvested to produce lacquer, which has been used for centuries in traditional East Asian art and craft. The process of collecting the sap is labor-intensive and requires skill to avoid skin irritation, as the sap contains urushiol, a compound that can cause allergic reactions.

Toxicity

The sap of Toxicodendron vernicifluum contains urushiol, which is also found in other members of the genus Toxicodendron, such as poison ivy. Contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Proper handling and protective measures are necessary when working with the tree.

Gallery

• 
  Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree
• 
  Mature tree in Edinburgh
• 
  Leaves and immature fruit
• 
  Close-up of leaves

Related pages

• Lacquerware
• Urushiol
• Anacardiaceae

• 
  Toxicodendron vernicifluum
• 
  Mature Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
• 
  Leaves and immature fruit on a mature Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Edinburgh
• 
  Toxicodendron vernicifluum