Chinese Parasol Tree
ExplorePlants
Chinese Parasol Tree
firmiana simplex
The Chinese Parasol Tree (Firmiana simplex) is an ornamental deciduous tree renowned for its smooth, bright green bark and massive, maple-like leaves that resemble parasols. Native to East Asia, it has been cultivated for centuries in temple gardens and urban landscapes. Its rapid growth and dramatic tropical appearance make it a favorite for shade-seekers, though in some regions outside its native range, it can spread vigorously and is classified as an opportunistic weed. During mid-summer, it erupts in large, airy clusters of yellow-green flowers, followed by unique seedpods that open into leaf-like structures before dropping, creating an enchanting spectacle throughout the seasons. Learn to recognize Chinese Parasol Tree in the wild using the Snappit field guide app.
Habitat: Typically found in lowland valleys, mountain slopes, riparian corridors, and widely planted in urban parks and residential gardens.
Appearance
This medium-sized deciduous tree typically grows up to 15 meters tall, instantly recognizable by its unusually smooth, lime-green bark that remains green even as the tree matures. Its alternate, palmately lobed leaves are immense, spanning up to 30 centimeters across, with 3 to 5 pointed lobes. In summer, it produces terminal panicles of tiny, petalless, lemon-yellow flowers. The subsequent seedpods are paper-like and split into four or five leaf-like sections, each bearing small, round, pea-sized seeds along their margins.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMalvalesFamilyMalvaceaeGenusFirmiana
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
In Chinese mythology, the legendary Phoenix (Fenghuang) is said to only perch upon the branches of the Chinese Parasol Tree, symbolizing peace and prosperity.
Its wood is highly resonant and has been traditionally used in China to construct the soundboards of classical stringed instruments like the guqin and guzheng.
The seeds of the tree are rich in oil and can be roasted to create a popular beverage that tastes remarkably similar to coffee.
Special abilities
Ability
Bark Photosynthesis
The smooth green bark contains active chlorophyll, allowing the tree to photosynthesize and generate energy even during winter when it is completely leafless.
Ability
Wind-Dispersed Pods
Its seed capsules split open into light, papery, leaf-like sails that easily catch the wind, ensuring the seeds travel far from the parent tree.
Ability
Rapid Regeneration
It possesses a vigorous root system and the ability to sprout quickly from stumps, allowing it to recover rapidly from physical damage.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 1000+ cm
Diet & Feeding
Like all green plants, the Chinese Parasol Tree produces its own food through photosynthesis, utilizing sunlight, carbon dioxide, water, and essential nutrients drawn from the soil.
Primary Foods
- Sunlight
- Carbon dioxide
- Water
- Soil minerals
Ecological connections
eaten by
Japanese Beetle
Popillia japonica
The leaves are heavily browsed by Japanese Beetle adults, causing skeletonization.
mutualism
Western Honey Bee
Apis mellifera
The showy, fragrant flowers attract honey bees for nectar and pollen collection.
Traits
No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
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Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to identify Chinese Parasol Tree?
The easiest way to identify Chinese Parasol Tree is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.
How long is Chinese Parasol Tree?
1000+ cm
What does Chinese Parasol Tree eat?
Like all green plants, the Chinese Parasol Tree produces its own food through photosynthesis, utilizing sunlight, carbon dioxide, water, and essential nutrients drawn from the soil.
Where is Chinese Parasol Tree usually found?
Typically found in lowland valleys, mountain slopes, riparian corridors, and widely planted in urban parks and residential gardens.
Snap Map
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