Firmiana simplex

Chinese parasol tree is a medium-sized fast growing deciduous tree in the Malvaceae (mallow) family native to Asia.  It is found growing along roadsides and other disturbed areas.   This tree grows quickly and aggressively to 30 feet tall and wide with a dense rounded canopy.  It is noted for its large lobed leaves which can grow 8 to 12 inches across enabling it to cast dense shade like a parasol, hence the common name.  

In late spring or early summer, long panicles of lightly fragrant white to yellow-green flowers occur, followed by unusual showy seed pods.  The flower stalks persist on the tree and can be somewhat unsightly.  Bright yellow fall color appears before the leaves drop revealing more of the structure of the tree and its unusual green bark that matches the color of the stems.  This tree is self-fertile meaning it can reseed itself easily.  

This tree will grow in sun to partial shade and in a variety of soils if they are well-drained.  IIn sandy soils it is a prolific self-seeder.  The branches are susceptible to breakage and need constant pruning to maintain shape.  This tree is drought-tolerant once established.

While it is sometimes used as a specimen or shade tree due to its unusual form and color consider using native trees. It is listed as invasive in several southeastern states.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Trunk scale is a minor problem.  This tree is capable of becoming weedy due to seedlings and is considered invasive in some southern states including SC, GA, MS, and TN.  The fruit and large leaf litter can be messy on hardscape surfaces.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.