Tungoil Tree

Vernicia fordii

Native to:
China, Hainan, Myanmar, Vietnam

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Euphorbiaceae
Genus:
Vernicia
Species:
Vernicia fordii
USDA Symbol:
VEFO

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Tree
Height:
2000 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may
Bloom Colors:
white, pink

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Cryptothelea nigrita

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
native to subtropical regions with fertile soils

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
30–90 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days.