Growth of Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum) and four native trees under varying water regimes

Abiotic stress tolerance may play a role in the invasion and spread of Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum). A greenhouse experiment was conducted to determine the effects of water stress on the growth of Sapium and four tree species native to the southeastern United States. Species identity, water treatment, and their interaction significantly influenced growth rate and mass of seedlings. No native species had as high an average growth rate as Sapium. Indeed, Sapium had a higher growth rate than every native species in every water treatment with the exception of a single native species (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) in the drier treatments (pulse drought, well watered). Sapium exhibits the potential to thrive at any point along the water gradient present in southeastern floodplain forests.

Growth of Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum) and four native trees under varying water regimes Conference Paper