Around 1900, the US planted Chinese tallow across the Gulf Coast as a commercial oil crop; it later invaded southern forests and can be toxic to cattle

Chinese tallow was introduced to the United States with commercial hopes. Around the beginning of the 20th century, the fast-growing tree was planted across parts of the Gulf Coast because its seeds contained valuable oils that could be used to make candles, soaps and other products. It also became popular as an ornamental tree because of its colourful autumn foliage and ability to grow in a variety of soils. More than a century later, the same qualities that made it attractive have helped it become one of the most widespread invasive trees in the southern United States, becoming established in forests, grasslands, wetlands and grazing areas across the region.

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