From a distance I thought these white blossoms were dogwood.
As much as I like dogwood, I was happily surprised as I got closer to find that it was a Tung Oil tree.
How could you not love these gorgeous blossoms? Although some of the shine came off when I discovered it is non-native and invasive in the gulf coast states where it was grown as a cash crop in the early 1900s.
These blossoms will produce fruits with seeds that are the source of tung oil (tungoil). The oil is used for manufacturing varnishes and paints, and as a waterproofing agent for linoleum and oilcloth. Unfortunately, all parts of the plant are toxic to livestock and humans.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Charleston, SC
March 12, 2023
I’ve used tung oil in finishing furniture but had no idea the flower was so lovely.