Toxicodendron vernicifluum
Chinese lacquer tree
A deciduous tree, up to 15m high, with a spreading habit and young shoots covered with yellow-brown hairs. Leaves are pinnate, divided into up to 13 glossy green leaflets that turn red and yellow in autumn. Hanging clusters of small yellow flowers are produced in summer, followed on female plants by round, pale yellow fruits
Synonyms
Rhus verniciflua
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red Yellow | Yellow | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Potentially harmful
- CAUTION Skin allergen causing severe dermatitis, Poisonous if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
A genus of flowering trees, shrubs and woody vines with variable green feathered foliage that can be smooth, toothed or lobed. Plants within this genus produce 'urushiol' oil which can irritate the skin
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Pakistan to Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil, with protection from strong winds. Autumn colour is best if grown in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1. Wear protective clothing to keep sap away from skin
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to coral spot and to verticillium wilt
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.