This deciduous tree is most notable for its leaves, which are very large – up to twelve inches across – and bright green. Commonly referred to as the Chinese parasol tree, F. simplex grows in warm parts of North America as well as its native Asian habitat. Its leaves really do resemble parasols and give a tremendous amount of shade, and the tree’s crown can spread up to twenty feet outward for a memorable effect.


Not only are its leaves unusual, but the Chinese parasol tree has green bark and stems that are revealed when its leaves turn yellow and drop off during the dormant season. Because it drops so many leaves, F. simplex has earned a reputation as a bit of a dirty tree. It also blooms yellow and green flowers in the spring as well as pods that contain its small seeds. Once these pods open, they release a varnish-like substance that has given the tree the nickname “varnish tree”. The Chinese parasol is a fast grower that can reach up to fifty feet in the right conditions. Despite its odd appearance, this can make a good landscape tree in warm areas, especially because of the thick, dense shade it provides. However, note that due to its extreme fertility this tree is considered invasive in some parts of North America, so make sure its cultivation is permitted if you’re considering growing one.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Lots of direct sunlight is necessary for this tree to thrive.
• Water: A fully mature specimen is drought-tolerant, but F. simplex should be regularly watered when young.

• Temperature: Warm temperatures. Should not be grown in areas that experience extreme frost.
• Soil: Alkaline, well-drained soil is best. However, the Chinese parasol tree can tolerate lots of different soil compositions: clay, loam, or sandy soil are all fine.
• Fertilizer: Not necessary. This is a hardy, vigorous grower.

Propagation

F. simplex propagates by seed. These seeds are self-fertile, germinate easily, and spread quickly, which has allowed the tree to spread across the world far from its native origin. To propagate, sow the seeds in the fall and let them develop over the winter season before they germinate at the beginning of spring. The soil that the new seeds are planted in should be well-drained. It’s not a bad idea to soak the seeds in water at room temperature for a few hours: this increases their chances of germinating later. But F. simplex grows so well that – provided the seeds are in well-drained soil – germination shouldn’t be an issue.

Varieties

F. simplex does have a cultivar, ‘Variegata’. Instead of bright green leaves, the variegated specimens have white-dappled foliage that contrasts quite nicely with the green of the leaves and bark. However, this cultivar is fairly obscure and difficult to find. The Chinese parasol tree also has several close relatives in the Firmiana genus. Particularly interesting is the bonfire tree, or F. colorata, which – true to its name – has bright orange-red flowers that give it a striking look.

Grower’s Tips

Tough though F. simplex is, heavy winds will damage it, so plant it in an area that receives lots of sun but not too much wind. It can also suffer from root rot if it’s planted in overly wet soil. Watch out for trunk scale insects, which can do serious damage. However, this tree is tough and pretty difficult to kill once established – this explains its invasive status in parts of the country – and once you’ve gotten a young one growing it should be set. Remember, though, that the Chinese parasol tree does shed an exceptional amount of leaves and foliage, so be prepared to do some yard work and don’t plant it too close to your driveway or home.