Plant Assessment Form
More Triadica sebifera resources
Triadica sebifera
Synonyms: Sapium sebiferum; Croton sebiferum, Excoecaria sebifera, Stillingia sebifera, Triadica sinensis
Common Names: Chinese tallow tree; popcorn tree; chicken tree; Florida aspen; Vegetable tallow; white wax berry
Evaluated on: 8/16/04
List committee review date: 11/02/2005
Re-evaluation date:
Evaluator(s)
Mark Newhouser/Project Director, Arundo Eradication and Coordination Project
Sonoma Ecology Center
205 First Street West Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 996-0712 ext. 113
mnewhouser@vom.com
List committee members
Carla Bossard
John Randall
Cynthia Roye
Jake Sigg
Peter Warner
General Comments
Removed second scientific name, Sapium sebiferum, and added it to the synonym line 3/28/17. Ramona Robison
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Overall Score ?
Plant scoring matrix
Based on letter scores from Sections 1 through 3 below
| Impact | Invasiveness | Distribution | | |
| A | A B | Any | High | No Alert |
| A | C D | Any | Moderate | Alert |
| B | A B | A B | Moderate | No Alert |
| B | A B | C D | Moderate | Alert |
| B | C D | Any | Limited | No Alert |
| C | A | A B | Moderate | No Alert |
| C | A | C D | Limited | No Alert |
| C | B | A | Moderate | No Alert |
| C | B | B D | Limited | No Alert |
| C | C | Any | Limited | No Alert |
| D | Any | Any | Not Listed | No Alert |
Moderate
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Alert Status ?
Plant scoring matrix
Based on letter scores from Sections 1 through 3 below
| Impact | Invasiveness | Distribution | Alert |
| A | A or B | C or D | Alert |
| B | A or B | C or D | Alert |
Alert
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Documentation ?
The total documentation score is the average
of Documentation scores given in Table 2.
| Reviewed Scientific Publication | 4 points |
| Other Published Material | 3 points |
| Observational | 2 points |
| Anecdotal | 1 points |
| Unknown or No Information | 0 points |
3 out of 5 |
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Score |
Documentation |
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| 1.1 |
?Impact on abiotic ecosystem processes
Consider the impact on the natural range and variation of abiotic ecosystem processes and system-wide parameters in ways that significantly diminish the ability of native species to survive and reproduce. Alterations that determine the types of communities that can exist in a given area are of greatest concern. Examples of abiotic processes include:
- fire occurrence, frequency, and intensity;
- geomorphological changes such as erosion and sedimentation rates;
- hydrological regimes, including soil water table;
- nutrient and mineral dynamics, including salinity, alkalinity, and pH;
- light availability (e.g. when an aquatic invader covers an entire water body that would otherwise be open).
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' most severe impact on an abiotic ecosystem process:
A. Severe, possibly irreversible, alteration or disruption of an ecosystem process.
B. Moderate alteration of an ecosystem process.
C. Minor alteration of an ecosystem process.
D. Negligible perceived impact on an ecosystem process.
U. Unknown.
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B. Moderate |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
Impact?
| Section 1 Scoring Matrix |
|---|
| Q 1.1 | Q 1.2 | Q 1.3 | Q 1.4 | Score |
| A | A | Any | Any | A |
| A | B | A,B | Any | A |
| A | B | C,D,U | Any | B |
| A | C,D,U | Any | Any | B |
| B | A | A | Any | A |
| B | A | B | A | A |
| B | A | B,C | B-D,U | B |
| B | A | C,D,U | A | A |
| B | A | C,D,U | B-D,U | B |
| B | B | A | A | A |
| B | C,D,U | A | A | B |
| B | B-D | A | B-D,U | B |
| B | B-D | B-D,U | Any | B |
| B | D,U | C,D,U | A-B | B |
| B | D,U | C,D,U | C,D,U | C |
| C-D,U | A | A | Any | A |
| C | B | A | Any | B |
| C | A,B | B-D,U | Any | B |
| C | C,D,U | Any | Any | C |
| D | A,B | B | Any | B |
| D | A,B | C,D,U | Any | C |
| D | C | Any | Any | C |
| D | D,U | Any | Any | D |
| U | A | B,C | Any | B |
| U | B,C | A,B | Any | B |
| U | B,C | C,D,U | Any | C |
| U | U | Any | Any | U |
Four-part score
BBBD
Total Score
B
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| 1.2 |
?Impact on plant community
Consider the cumulative ecological impact of this species to the plant communities it invades. Give more weight to changes in plant composition, structure, and interactions that involve rare or keystone species or rare community types. Examples of severe impacts include:
- formation of stands dominated (>75% cover) by the species;
- occlusion (>75% cover) of a native canopy, including a water surface, that eliminates or degrades layers below;
- significant reduction or extirpation of populations of one or more native species.
Examples of impacts usually less than severe include:
- reduction in propagule dispersal, seedling recruitment, or survivorship of native species;
- creation of a new structural layer, including substantial thatch or litter, without elimination or replacement of a pre-existing layer;
- change in density or depth of a structural layer;
- change in horizontal distribution patterns or fragmentation of a native community;
- creation of a vector or intermediate host of pests or pathogens that infect native plant species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on community composition, structure and interactions:
A. Severe alteration of plant community composition, structure, or interactions.
B. Moderate alteration of plant community composition.
C. Minor alteration of community composition.
D. Negligible impact known; causes no perceivable change in community composition, structure, or interactions.
U. Unknown.
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B. Moderate |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 1.3 |
?Impact on higher trophic levels
Consider the cumulative impact of this species on the animals, fungi, microbes, and other organisms in the communities that it invades. Although a non-native species may provide resources for one or a few native species (e.g. by providing food, nesting sites, etc.), the ranking should be based on the species' net impact on all native species. Give more weight to changes in composition and interactions involving rare or keystone species or rare community types.
Examples of severe impacts include:
- extirpation or endangerment of an existing native species or population;
- elimination or significant reduction in native species' nesting or foraging sites, cover, or other critical resources (i.e., native species habitat), including migratory corridors.
Examples of impacts that are usually less than severe include:
- minor reduction in nesting or foraging sites, cover, etc. for native animals;
- minor reduction in habitat connectivity or migratory corridors;
- interference with native pollinators;
- injurious components, such as awns or spines that damage the mouth and gut of native wildlife species, or production of anti-digestive or acutely toxic chemical that can poison native wildlife species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on community composition and interactions:
A. Severe alteration of higher trophic populations, communities, or interactions.
B. Moderate alteration of higher trophic level populations, communities, or interactions.
C. Minor alteration of higher trophic level populations, communities or interactions.
D. Negligible impact; causes no perceivable change in higher trophic level populations, communities, or interactions.
E. Unknown.
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B. Moderate |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 1.4 |
?Impact on genetic integrity
Consider whether the species can hybridize with and influence the proportion of individuals with non-native genes within populations of native species. Mechanisms and possible outcomes include:
- production of fertile or sterile hybrids that can outcompete the native species;
- production of sterile hybrids that lower the reproductive output of the native species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on genetic integrity:
A. Severe (high proportion of individuals).
B. Moderate (medium proportion of individuals).
C. Minor (low proportion of individuals).
D. No known hybridization.
U. Unknown.
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D. None |
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| 2.1 |
?Role of anthropogenic and natural disturbance in establishment
Assess dependence on disturbance, both human and natural, for establishment of this species in wildlands. Examples of anthropogenic disturbances include:
- grazing, browsing, and rooting by domestic livestock and feral animals;
- altered fire regimes, including fire suppression;
- cultivation;
- silvicultural practices;
- altered hydrology due to dams, diversions, irrigation, etc.;
- roads and trails;
- construction;
- nutrient loading from fertilizers, runoff, etc.
Examples of natural disturbance include:
- wildfire;
- floods;
- landslides;
- windthrow;
- native animal activities such as burrowing, grazing, or browsing.
Select the first letter in the sequence below that describes the ability of this species to invade wildlands:
A. Severe invasive potential: this species can establish independent of any known natural or anthropogenic disturbance.
B. Moderate invasive potential: this species may occasionally establish in undisturbed areas but can readily establish in areas with natural disturbances.
C. Low invasive potential: this species requires anthropogenic disturbance to establish.
D. No perceptible invasive potential: this species does not establish in wildlands (though it may persist from former cultivation).
U. Unknown.
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A. Severe |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
Invasiveness?
| Section 2 Scoring Matrix |
| Total points | Score |
| 17-21 | A |
| 11-16 | B |
| 5-10 | C |
| 0-4 | D |
| More than two U's | U |
Total Points
13
Total Score
B
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| 2.2 |
?Local rate of spread with no management
Assess rate of spread in existing localized infestations where the proportion of available habitat invaded is still small when no management measures are implemented.
Select the one letter below that best describes the rate of spread:
A. Increases rapidly (doubling in <10 years)
B. Increases, but less rapidly
C. Stable
D. Declining
U. Unknown
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U. Unknown |
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| 2.3 |
?Recent trend in total area infested within state
Assess the overall trend in the total area infested by this species statewide. Include current management efforts in this assessment and note them.
Select the one letter below that best describes the current trend:
A. Increasing rapidly (doubling in total range statewide in <10 years)
B. Increasing, but less rapidly
C. Stable
D. Declining
U. Unknown
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B. Increasing less rapidly |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 2.4 |
?Innate reproductive potential
(see Worksheet A)
Assess the innate reproductive potential of this species. Worksheet A is provided for computing the score.
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B. Moderate |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 2.5 |
?Potential for human-caused dispersal
Assess whether this species is currently spread: or has high potential to be spread: by direct or indirect human activity. Such activity may enable the species to overcome natural barriers to dispersal that would not be crossed otherwise, or it may simply increase the natural dispersal of the species. Possible mechanisms for dispersal include:
- commercial sales for use in agriculture, ornamental horticulture, or aquariums;
- use as forage, erosion control, or revegetation;
- presence as a contaminant (seeds or propagules) in bulk seed, hay, feed, soil, packing materials, etc.;
- spread along transportation corridors such as highways, railroads, trails, or canals;
- transport on boats or boat trailers.
Select the one letter below that best describes human-caused dispersal and spread:
A. High: there are numerous opportunities for dispersal to new areas.
B. Moderate: human dispersal occurs, but not at a high level.
C. Low: human dispersal is infrequent or inefficient.
D. Does not occur.
U. Unknown.
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B. Moderate |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 2.6 |
? Potential for natural long-distance dispersal
We have chosen 1 km as the threshold of "long-distance." Assess whether this species is frequently spread, or has high potential to be spread, by animals or abiotic mechanisms that can move seed, roots, stems, or other propagules this far. The following are examples of such natural long-distance dispersal mechanisms:
- the species' fruit or seed is commonly consumed by birds or other animals that travel long distances;
- the species' fruits or seeds are sticky or burred and cling to feathers or hair of animals;
- the species has buoyant fruits, seeds, or other propagules that are dispersed by flowing water;
- the species has light propagules that promote long-distance wind dispersal;
- The species, or parts of it, can detach and disperse seeds as they are blown long distances (e.g., tumbleweed).
Select the one letter below that best describes natural long-distance dispersal and spread:
A. Frequent long-distance dispersal by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
B. Occasional long-distance dispersal by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
C. Rare dispersal more than 1 km by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
D. No dispersal of more than 1 km by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
U. Unknown.
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B. Occasional |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
| 2.7 |
?Other regions invaded
Assess whether this species has invaded ecological types in other states or countries outside its native range that are analogous to ecological types not yet invaded in your state (see Worksheets B, C, and D for California, Arizona, and Nevada, respectively, in Part IV for lists of ecological types). This information is useful in predicting the likelihood of further spread within your state.
Select the one letter below that best describes the species' invasiveness in other states or countries, outside its native range.
A. This species has invaded 3 or more ecological types elsewhere that exist in your state and are as yet not invaded by this species (e.g. it has invaded Mediterranean grasslands, savanna, and maquis in southern Europe, which are analogous to California grasslands, savanna, and chaparral, respectively).
B. Invades 1 or 2 ecological types that exist but are not yet invaded in your state.
C. Invades elsewhere but only in ecological types that it has already invaded in the state.
D. Not known as an escape anywhere else.
U. Unknown.
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B. Invades 1 or 2 ecological types |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
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| 3.1 |
?Ecological amplitude/Range
(see Worksheet C)
Refer to Worksheet C and select the one letter below that indicates the number of different ecological types that this species invades.
A. Widespread: the species invades at least three major types or at least six minor types.
B. Moderate: the species invades two major types or five minor types.
C. Limited: the species invades only one major type and two to four minor types.
D. Narrow: the species invades only one minor type.
U. Unknown.
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C. Limited |
Reviewed Scientific Publication |
Distribution?
| Section 3 Scoring Matrix |
| Q 3.1 | Q 3.2 | Score |
| A | A, B | A |
| A | C,D,U | B |
| B | A | A |
| B | B,C | B |
| B | D | C |
| C | A,B | B |
| C | C,D | C |
| D | A | B |
| D | B,C | C |
| D | D | D |
| A,B | U | C |
| C,D | U | D |
| U | U | U |
Total Score
C
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| 3.2 |
?Distribution/Peak frequency
(see Worksheet C)
To assess distribution, record the letter that corresponds to the highest percent infested score entered in Worksheet C for any ecological type.
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D. Very low |
Observational |
Scores are explained in the "Criteria for Categorizing Invasive Non-Native Plants that Threaten Wildlands".
| Section 1: Impact |
Question 1.1 Impact on abiotic ecosystem processes?
Consider the impact on the natural range and variation of abiotic ecosystem processes and system-wide parameters in ways that significantly diminish the ability of native species to survive and reproduce. Alterations that determine the types of communities that can exist in a given area are of greatest concern. Examples of abiotic processes include:
- fire occurrence, frequency, and intensity;
- geomorphological changes such as erosion and sedimentation rates;
- hydrological regimes, including soil water table;
- nutrient and mineral dynamics, including salinity, alkalinity, and pH;
- light availability (e.g. when an aquatic invader covers an entire water body that would otherwise be open).
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' most severe impact on an abiotic ecosystem process:
A. Severe, possibly irreversible, alteration or disruption of an ecosystem process.
B. Moderate alteration of an ecosystem process.
C. Minor alteration of an ecosystem process.
D. Negligible perceived impact on an ecosystem process.
U. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify ecosystem processes impacted:
The Chinese tallow tree alters nutrient levels in soil. The tallow tree adds nutrients to systems where it has been introduced (increases eutrophication). Through rapidly decomposing leaf litter the tallow tree increases the levels of nitrogen, phosphrus, and other nutrients while decreasing levels of sodium and magnesium.
Sources of information:
Barrilleaux,-T.C; Grace,-J.B.2000. ÐGrowth and invasive potential of Sapium sebiferum (Euphorbiaceae) within the coastal prairie region: the effects of soil and moisture regime.Ó American Journal of Botany. 87 (8):1099-1106.
Cameron G.C., Spencer S.R. ÐRapid Leaf Decay and Nutrient Release in a Chinese Tallow Forest.Ó Oecologia 80:222-228. 1989.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
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Question 1.2 Impact on plant community composition,
structure, and interactions?
Consider the cumulative ecological impact of this species to the plant communities it invades. Give more weight to changes in plant composition, structure, and interactions that involve rare or keystone species or rare community types. Examples of severe impacts include:
- formation of stands dominated (>75% cover) by the species;
- occlusion (>75% cover) of a native canopy, including a water surface, that eliminates or degrades layers below;
- significant reduction or extirpation of populations of one or more native species.
Examples of impacts usually less than severe include:
- reduction in propagule dispersal, seedling recruitment, or survivorship of native species;
- creation of a new structural layer, including substantial thatch or litter, without elimination or replacement of a pre-existing layer;
- change in density or depth of a structural layer;
- change in horizontal distribution patterns or fragmentation of a native community;
- creation of a vector or intermediate host of pests or pathogens that infect native plant species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on community composition, structure and interactions:
A. Severe alteration of plant community composition, structure, or interactions.
B. Moderate alteration of plant community composition.
C. Minor alteration of community composition.
D. Negligible impact known; causes no perceivable change in community composition, structure, or interactions.
U. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify type of impact or alteration:
The Chinese tallow tree can alter plant species composition and structure. Once established it is able to form monotypic stands. It has taken over areas of coastal prairie in Texas and areas of coastal floodplain forests of the Southeast. The tallow tree grows faster than native vegetation and can establish and grow under a variety of different conditions.
Sources of information:
Bruce K.A., et al. ÐIntroduction, Impact on Native Habitats, and Management of a Woody Invader, the Chinese Tallow Tree, Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Natural Areas Journal 17(3): 255-260. 1997.
Cameron G.C., Spencer S.R. ÐRapid Leaf Decay and Nutrient Release in a Chinese Tallow Forest.Ó Oecologia 80:222-228. 1989.
Conway W.C., Smith L.M. ÐPotential Allelopathic Interference by the Exotic Chinese Tallow Tree (Sapium sebiferum).Ó American Midlands Naturalist 148: 43-53. 2002.
Jones R.H., McLeod K.W. ÐShade Tolerance in Seedlings of Chinese Tallow Tree, American Sycamore, and Cherrybark Oak.Ó Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club 116(4): 371-377. 1989.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
Randall, J. M. ÐWeed Alert! New Invasive Weeds in California.Ó CAL IPC Proceedings. 1997.
Siemann, E. and W. E. Rogers (2003). "Changes in light and nitrogen availability under pioneer trees may indirectly facilitate tree invasions of grasslands." Journal of Ecology 91(6): 923-931.
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Question 1.3 Impact on higher trophic levels?
Consider the cumulative impact of this species on the animals, fungi, microbes, and other organisms in the communities that it invades. Although a non-native species may provide resources for one or a few native species (e.g. by providing food, nesting sites, etc.), the ranking should be based on the species' net impact on all native species. Give more weight to changes in composition and interactions involving rare or keystone species or rare community types.
Examples of severe impacts include:
- extirpation or endangerment of an existing native species or population;
- elimination or significant reduction in native species' nesting or foraging sites, cover, or other critical resources (i.e., native species habitat), including migratory corridors.
Examples of impacts that are usually less than severe include:
- minor reduction in nesting or foraging sites, cover, etc. for native animals;
- minor reduction in habitat connectivity or migratory corridors;
- interference with native pollinators;
- injurious components, such as awns or spines that damage the mouth and gut of native wildlife species, or production of anti-digestive or acutely toxic chemical that can poison native wildlife species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on community composition and interactions:
A. Severe alteration of higher trophic populations, communities, or interactions.
B. Moderate alteration of higher trophic level populations, communities, or interactions.
C. Minor alteration of higher trophic level populations, communities or interactions.
D. Negligible impact; causes no perceivable change in higher trophic level populations, communities, or interactions.
E. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify type of impact or alteration:
The berries of the tallow tree are eaten by many bird species and the foliage is not grazed by herbivores in areas where established. Studies in Texas have shown that rates of nutrient cycling promotes populations of a non-native isopod and depresses populations of native invertebrates. It produces tannins which inhibit the feeding of isopod and amphipod invertebrates in aquatic systems and toxic chemicals capable of stupefying fish. Although the tallow tree may be a food source for birds it could be harmful to aquatic species. Also, the tallow tree displaces native vegetation reducing habitat and food sources for native wildlife.
Sources of information:
Bruce K.A., et al. ÐIntroduction, Impact on Native Habitats, and Management of a Woody Invader, the Chinese Tallow Tree, Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Natural Areas Journal 17(3): 255-260. 1997.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
Lankau, R. A., W. E. Rogers, et al. (2004). "Constraints on the utilisation of the invasive Chinese tallow tree Sapium sebiferum by generalist native herbivores in coastal prairies." Ecological Entomology 29(1): 66-75.
Randall, J. M. ÐWeed Alert! New Invasive Weeds in California.Ó CAL EPPC Proceedings. 1997.
Renne I.J. et al. ÐGeneralized Avian Dispersal Syndrome Contributes to Chinese Tallow Tree (Sapium sebiferum Euphorbiaceae) Invasiveness.Ó Diversity and Distribution 8:285-295. 2002.
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Question 1.4 Impact on genetic integrity?
Consider whether the species can hybridize with and influence the proportion of individuals with non-native genes within populations of native species. Mechanisms and possible outcomes include:
- production of fertile or sterile hybrids that can outcompete the native species;
- production of sterile hybrids that lower the reproductive output of the native species.
Select the one letter below that best describes this species' impact on genetic integrity:
A. Severe (high proportion of individuals).
B. Moderate (medium proportion of individuals).
C. Minor (low proportion of individuals).
D. No known hybridization.
U. Unknown.
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D
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none No closely-related species.
Sources of information:
Hickman, J. C. (ed.) 1993. The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, CA
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| Section 2: Invasiveness |
Question 2.1 Role of anthropogenic and natural disturbance
in establishment?
Assess this species' dependence on disturbance: both human and natural: for establishment in wildlands. Examples of anthropogenic disturbances include:
- grazing, browsing, and rooting by domestic livestock and feral animals;
- altered fire regimes, including fire suppression;
- cultivation;
- silvicultural practices;
- altered hydrology due to dams, diversions, irrigation, etc.;
- roads and trails;
- construction;
- nutrient loading from fertilizers, runoff, etc.
Examples of natural disturbance include:
- wildfire;
- floods;
- landslides;
- windthrow;
- native animal activities such as burrowing, grazing, or browsing.
Select the first letter in the sequence below that describes the ability of this species to invade wildlands:
A. Severe invasive potential: this species can establish independent of any known natural or anthropogenic disturbance.
B. Moderate invasive potential: this species may occasionally establish in undisturbed areas but can readily establish in areas with natural disturbances.
C. Low invasive potential: this species requires anthropogenic disturbance to establish.
D. No perceptible invasive potential: this species does not establish in wildlands (though it may persist from former cultivation).
U. Unknown.
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U
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Describe role of disturbance:
Has invaded disturbed areas in California. It is able to establish and grow under a variety of soil conditions, is shade tolerant, can grow in saline conditions, can tolerate flooding and drought, grows quickly, fruits at a young age, and produces large amounts of seed. The seeds are also dispersed into natural areas by birds.
Sources of information:
Anonymous. ÐChinese Tallow Tree, Pop-corn Tree Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Aquatic Plant Management, Research and Technical Services, April 1990.
Anonymous. ÐThis Beauty is a Beast.Ó Aquatic Plant Quarterly Summer 1992.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jubinsky G., Anderson L.C. ÐThe Invasive Potential of Chinese Tallow-tree (Sapium sebiferum) in the Southeast.Ó Castanea 61(3): 226-231. 1996.
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Question 2.2 Local rate of spread with no management?
Assess this species' rate of spread in existing localized infestations where the proportion of available habitat invaded is still small when no management measures are implemented.
Select the one letter below that best describes the rate of spread:
A. Increases rapidly (doubling in <10 years)
B. Increases, but less rapidly
C. Stable
D. Declining
U. Unknown
|
U
|
Describe rate of spread:
In Davis, CA, trees doubled in the north Davis ponds in less than 10 years.
Sources of information:
Carla Bossard, St. Marys College and John Randall, The Nature Conservancy, UC Davis, personal observations.
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Question 2.3 Recent trend in total area infested within state?
Assess the overall trend in the total area infested by this species statewide. Include current management efforts in this assessment and note them.
Select the one letter below that best describes the current trend:
A. Increasing rapidly (doubling in total range statewide in <10 years)
B. Increasing, but less rapidly
C. Stable
D. Declining
U. Unknown
|
B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
|
Describe trend:
In 1998 there were over 100 trees along the American River Parkway and could easily apread downstream. The tallow tree is also located in the Consumnes River watershed, Redding, and the San Francisco Bay delta region.
Sources of information:
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Randall, J. M. ÐWeed Alert! New Invasive Weeds in California.Ó CAL EPPC Proceedings. 1997.
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Question 2.4 Innate reproductive potential?
Assess the innate reproductive potential of this species. Worksheet A is provided for computing the score.
|
B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
|
Describe key reproductive characteristics:
Anonymous. ÐThis Beauty is a Beast.Ó Aquatic Plant Quarterly Summer 1992.
Anonymous. 1990 ÐChinese Tallow Tree, Pop-corn Tree Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Aquatic Plant Management, Research and Technical Services
Bruce K.A., et al. 1997. ÐIntroduction, Impact on Native Habitats, and Management of a Woody Invader, the Chinese Tallow Tree, Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Natural Areas Journal 17(3): 255-260.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jones R.H., McLeod K.W. ÐShade Tolerance in Seedlings of Chinese Tallow Tree, American Sycamore, and Cherrybark Oak.Ó Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club 116(4): 371-377. 1989.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
Rogers, W. E. and E. Siemann (2003). "Effects of simulated herbivory and resources on Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum, Euphorbiaceae) invasion of native coastal prairie." American Journal of Botany 90(2): 243-249.
Sources of information:
The tallow tree is planted as an ornamental and historically used as a honey plant for beekeeping and introduced as a possible oil crop tree. Widely planted as a street tree. It has been a popular ornamental because it grows quickly and under many conditions.
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Question 2.5 Potential for human-caused dispersal?
Assess whether this species is currently spread: or has high potential to be spread: by direct or indirect human activity. Such activity may enable the species to overcome natural barriers to dispersal that would not be crossed otherwise, or it may simply increase the natural dispersal of the species. Possible mechanisms for dispersal include:
- commercial sales for use in agriculture, ornamental horticulture, or aquariums;
- use as forage, erosion control, or revegetation;
- presence as a contaminant (seeds or propagules) in bulk seed, hay, feed, soil, packing materials, etc.;
- spread along transportation corridors such as highways, railroads, trails, or canals;
- transport on boats or boat trailers.
Select the one letter below that best describes human-caused dispersal and spread:
A. High: there are numerous opportunities for dispersal to new areas.
B. Moderate: human dispersal occurs, but not at a high level.
C. Low: human dispersal is infrequent or inefficient.
D. Does not occur.
U. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify dispersal mechanisms:
The tallow tree is planted as an ornamental and historically used as a honey plant for beekeeping and introduced as a possible oil crop tree. Widely planted as a street tree. It has been a popular ornamental because it grows quickly and under many conditions.
Sources of information:
Anonymous. ÐThis Beauty is a Beast.Ó Aquatic Plant Quarterly Summer 1992.
Bruce K.A., et al. ÐIntroduction, Impact on Native Habitats, and Management of a Woody Invader, the Chinese Tallow Tree, Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Natural Areas Journal 17(3): 255-260. 1997.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
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Question 2.6 Potential for natural long-distance dispersal?
We have chosen 1 km as the threshold of "long-distance." Assess whether this species is frequently spread, or has high potential to be spread, by animals or abiotic mechanisms that can move seed, roots, stems, or other propagules this far. The following are examples of such natural long-distance dispersal mechanisms:
- the species' fruit or seed is commonly consumed by birds or other animals that travel long distances;
- the species' fruits or seeds are sticky or burred and cling to feathers or hair of animals;
- the species has buoyant fruits, seeds, or other propagules that are dispersed by flowing water;
- the species has light propagules that promote long-distance wind dispersal;
- The species, or parts of it, can detach and disperse seeds as they are blown long distances (e.g., tumbleweed).
Select the one letter below that best describes natural long-distance dispersal and spread:
A. Frequent long-distance dispersal by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
B. Occasional long-distance dispersal by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
C. Rare dispersal more than 1 km by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
D. No dispersal of more than 1 km by animals or abiotic mechanisms.
U. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify dispersal mechanisms:
Seeds are dispersed by birds and along waterways. Movement of seed through waterways and by birds make dispersal over 1km possible.
Sources of information:
Cameron G.C., Spencer S.R. ÐRapid Leaf Decay and Nutrient Release in a Chinese Tallow Forest.Ó Oecologia 80:222-228. 1989.
DiTomaso J.M., Healy E. Weeds of California and Other Western States. As yet unpublished.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
Jubinsky G., Anderson L.C. ÐThe Invasive Potential of Chinese Tallow-tree (Sapium sebiferum) in the Southeast.Ó Castanea 61(3): 226-231. 1996
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Question 2.7 Other regions invaded?
Assess whether this species has invaded ecological types in other states or countries outside its native range that are analogous to ecological types not yet invaded in your state (see Worksheets B, C, and D for California, Arizona, and Nevada, respectively, in Part IV for lists of ecological types). This information is useful in predicting the likelihood of further spread within your state.
Select the one letter below that best describes the species' invasiveness in other states or countries, outside its native range.
A. This species has invaded 3 or more ecological types elsewhere that exist in your state and are as yet not invaded by this species (e.g. it has invaded Mediterranean grasslands, savanna, and maquis in southern Europe, which are analogous to California grasslands, savanna, and chaparral, respectively).
B. Invades 1 or 2 ecological types that exist but are not yet invaded in your state.
C. Invades elsewhere but only in ecological types that it has already invaded in the state.
D. Not known as an escape anywhere else.
U. Unknown.
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B
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Identify other regions:
The tallow tree is now naturalized in the southeastern US from the coastal plain of South Carolina south to Florida and west along Texas. The southeastern US is in the same latitudes as eastern Asia, where the tallow tree is native. May have similar habitat types. The tallow tree was introduced to the US in the 1700s. In California, it occurs in the Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Region. Behavior elsewhere suggests it could be a problem in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Has invaded areas similar to the Delta that are not yet invaded in California.
Sources of information:
Bruce K.A., et al. ÐIntroduction, Impact on Native Habitats, and Management of a Woody Invader, the Chinese Tallow Tree, Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb.Ó Natural Areas Journal 17(3): 255-260. 1997.
Jubinsky G. ÐChinese Tallow, (Sapium sebiferum).Ó Dept. Enviro. Protection, Florida. Publication # TSS-93-03. 1995
Jubinsky G., Anderson L.C. ÐThe Invasive Potential of Chinese Tallow-tree (Sapium sebiferum) in the Southeast.Ó Castanea 61(3): 226-231. 1996.
Randall, J. M. ÐWeed Alert! New Invasive Weeds in California.Ó CAL EPPC Proceedings. 1997.
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| Section 3: Distribution |
Question 3.1 Ecological amplitude/Range?
Refer to Worksheet C and select the one letter below that indicates the number of different ecological types that this species invades.
A. Widespread: the species invades at least three major types or at least six minor types.
B. Moderate: the species invades two major types or five minor types.
C. Limited: the species invades only one major type and two to four minor types.
D. Narrow: the species invades only one minor type.
U. Unknown.
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C
Reviewed Scientific Publication
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Sources of information:
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Question 3.2 Distribution/Peak frequency?
To assess distribution, record the letter that corresponds to the highest percent infested score entered in Worksheet C for any ecological type.
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D
Observational
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Describe distribution:
Percent of infested areas in California is unknown.
Sources of information:
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| Reaches reproductive maturity in 2 years or less |
No |
| Dense infestations produce >1,000 viable seed per square meter |
Yes |
| Populations of this species produce seeds every year. |
Yes |
| Seed production sustained over 3 or more months within a population annually |
Unknown |
| Seeds remain viable in soil for three or more years |
No |
| Viable seed produced with both self-pollination and cross-pollination |
Unknown |
| Has quickly spreading vegetative structures (rhizomes, roots, etc.) that may root at nodes |
No |
| Fragments easily and fragments can become established elsewhere |
No |
| Resprouts readily when cut, grazed, or burned |
Yes |
| Total points: |
4
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| Total unknowns: |
2 |
| Total score: |
B?
Scoring Criteria for Worksheet A
A. High reproductive potential (6 or more points).
B. Moderate reproductive potential (4-5 points).
C. Low reproductive potential (3 points or less and less than 3 Unknowns).
U. Unknown (3 or fewer points and 3 or more Unknowns).
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Related traits:
Worksheet B - Arizona Ecological Types is not included here
(sensu Holland 1986)
| Major Ecological Types |
Minor Ecological Types |
Code?
A means >50% of type occurrences are invaded;
B means 20% to 50%;
C means 5% to 20%;
D means present but <5%;
U means unknown (unable to estimate percentage of occurrences invaded)
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| Marine Systems | marine systems | |
| Freshwater and Estuarine | lakes, ponds, reservoirs | |
| Aquatic Systems | rivers, streams, canals | |
| estuaries | |
| Dunes | coastal | |
| desert | |
| interior | |
| Scrub and Chaparral | coastal bluff scrub | |
| coastal scrub | |
| Sonoran desert scrub | |
| Mojavean desert scrub (incl. Joshua tree woodland) | |
| Great Basin scrub | |
| chenopod scrub | |
| montane dwarf scrub | |
| Upper Sonoran subshrub scrub | |
| chaparral | |
| Grasslands, Vernal Pools, Meadows, and other Herb Communities | coastal prairie | |
| valley and foothill grassland | |
| Great Basin grassland | |
| vernal pool | |
| meadow and seep | |
| alkali playa | |
| pebble plain | |
| Bog and Marsh | bog and fen | |
| marsh and swamp | |
| Riparian and Bottomland habitat | riparian forest | D, < 5% |
| riparian woodland | D, < 5% |
| riparian scrub (incl.desert washes) | D, < 5% |
| Woodland | cismontane woodland | |
| piñon and juniper woodland | |
| Sonoran thorn woodland | |
| Forest | broadleaved upland forest | |
| North Coast coniferous forest | |
| closed cone coniferous forest | |
| lower montane coniferous forest | |
| upper montane coniferous forest | |
| subalpine coniferous forest | |
| Alpine Habitats | alpine boulder and rock field | |
| alpine dwarf scrub | |
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Amplitude (breadth): |
C |
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Distribution (highest score): |
D |
Infested Jepson Regions
Click here for a map of Jepson regions
