Chinese tallow tree

noun

: a tall, fast-growing, deciduous Asian tree (Sapium sebiferum synonym Triadica sebifera) that has hard wood, heart-shaped leaves, and oily wax-coated seeds

Note: The Chinese tallow tree was originally introduced into South Carolina in the 1700s and is now typically considered an invasive species in parts of the southeastern United States.

see chinese tallow

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of Chinese tallow tree was in 1787

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Chinese tallow tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chinese%20tallow%20tree. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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