PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates light shade but produces less sap for traditional lacquer production
Watering
Water deeply and allow the top 15–20 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to cold temperatures down to -10°C; avoids prolonged extreme heat above 35°C to prevent leaf scorch
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound leaves with 7–19 glossy green leaflets, turning vibrant red in autumn
- Flower: Small, pale yellow, fragrant blooms clustered in axillary panicles
- Bark: Gray-brown, smooth when young, developing shallow fissures as the tree matures
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy
Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 4 liters of water for 3 days; strain solids and dilute 1:20 before drenching soil to avoid odor and pest issuesPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin crowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration throughout the canopy
- Avoid pruning during spring sap flow to minimize urushiol exposure risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contact or ingestion may cause skin irritation, vomiting, and oral pain
Humans: Contains urushiol resin; direct contact causes severe allergic contact dermatitis; ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal distress
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used for over 3,000 years in East Asia to produce durable, high-gloss traditional lacquerware
Usage: Lacquer production for decorative crafts, ornamental shade tree in temperate gardens
