Firmiana simplex

Firmiana simplex, commonly known as the Chinese parasol tree, or wutong (Chinese: 梧桐; pinyin: wútóng; jap.: godō), is a tree in the family Malvaceae, formerly in the family Sterculiaceae, in the order Malvales, and native to Asia. It grows up to 16 m (52 ft) tall.

Description

A tree. It can have several stems. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows to 20 m high. It spreads 10 m wide. It has smooth bark. It is green but ages to grey. The leaves have 3-7 lobes. They are arranged like fingers on a hand. They are 30 cm across. They turn soft yellow before falling. The flowers are small and cream. They are in large groups on the ends of branches and in the axils of leaves. The fruit are reddish, papery, leaf-like follicles. These split and expose the seeds before they drop.

Edible Uses

The seeds are edible roasted and have an oily texture.

Traditional Uses

The seeds are cooked and eaten as a delicacy. They are also roasted and used for a tea drink. The gum is used for chocolates.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

The plant is astringent and used as a salve. The seed is antiphlogistic, expectorant, and refrigerant. A decoction of the roots is used to reduce swellings. A lotion made from the leaves is used in the treatment of carbuncles, haemorrhoids, and sores.

Distribution

It is a subtropical plant. It is native to E Asia. It can grow in light shade. It needs wind protection. It can tolerate salt spray. It can stand very light frosts. It is best in well drained loams. It can tolerate fairly acid or alkaline soils. It suits hardiness zones 7-10. Hobart Botanical Gardens. In Sichuan and Yunnan.

Where It Grows

Africa, Asia, Australia, Britain, China*, Europe, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, North America, Pakistan, Philippines, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Taiwan, Tasmania, USA, Vietnam,

Cultivation

Plants are grown from seed. The seed should be sown as soon as they ripen. The pulp should be washed from the seed. Seedlings should be grown for one year before planting out. They are easy to transplant. Trees should be spaced 6-10 m apart.

Propagation

Sow seed as soon as it is ripe in a warm greenhouse. Stored seed can be sown in early spring in a greenhouse and usually germinates within two months. Prick seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle and grow on under glass for at least their first winter. Plant out into permanent positions in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts, with some cold protection recommended for at least the first winter outdoors.

Other Uses

A fibre obtained by retting the bark is used for coarse cordage and cloth. A hair wash is made from the leaves and fibre. The wood is used for making furniture and coffins.

Notes

There are 12 Firmiana species. Also put in the family Sterculiaceae.

Nutrition

Synonyms

Also Known As

Kadaya, Kudal, Kullu, Kuthada, Sardol, Thondi, Vennaali, Wutong

References (23)

• Arinathan, V., et al, 2007, Wild edibles used by Palliyars of the western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge. 6(1) pp 163-168 (As Sterculia urens)
• Cundall, P., (ed.), 2004, Gardening Australia: flora: the gardener's bible. ABC Books. p 605
• Dobriyal, M. J. R. & Dobriyal, R., 2014, Non Wood Forest Produce an Option for Ethnic Food and Nutritional Security in India. Int. J. of Usuf. Mngt. 15(1):17-37 (As Sterculia urens)
• Etherington, K., & Imwold, D., (Eds), 2001, Botanica's Trees & Shrubs. The illustrated A-Z of over 8500 trees and shrubs. Random House, Australia. p 329
• Flora of Pakistan. www.eFloras.org

More from Malvaceae

Grewia oppositifolia

Grewia orbiculata

🌱

Grewia orbifolia

Grewia orientalis

Wild currant, Emu berries

Grewia oxyphylla

Blush plum

Grewia pachycalyx

Large-flowered white cross-berry