North Red Chinese Toon (Vegetable Tree)

Toona sinensis

 Seeds per pack ~100   Germination: 91%  Packed for 2025

The Chinese Toon tree, scientifically known as Toona sinensis, is a deciduous tree native to China and other parts of East Asia. It is a member of the Meliaceae family, which also includes mahogany and neem trees. The Chinese Toon tree is highly valued for its various uses, including its edible shoots, fragrant leaves, and timber. In Chinese culture, the Chinese Toon tree has historical and symbolic significance. It is sometimes referred to as the "tree of a hundred uses" due to its versatility and utility. The tree is also associated with longevity and is often planted near homes and temples.

The Chinese Toon tree typically grows to a height of 30-80 feet (10-25 meters) and has a broad, spreading canopy. Its bark is grayish-brown and becomes rough and furrowed with age. The tree's leaves are compound and pinnate, with 10-30 pairs of small leaflets that have a fresh green color.

One of the most notable features of the Chinese Toon tree is its tender, edible shoots, which are harvested in the spring when they are still young and tender. These shoots are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine, often used in stir-fries, soups, and various dishes. They have a mild, slightly onion-like flavor. The leaves of the Chinese Toon tree are aromatic and emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed or bruised. This fragrance has led to the tree's use in traditional medicine and as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.  The wood of the Chinese Toon tree is valued for its durability and is used for various purposes, including construction, furniture making, and cabinetry. It is a hardwood with a light to medium brown color.

Chinese Toon trees are known for their ability to adapt to a variety of soil types and environmental conditions. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in both temperate and subtropical regions. Additionally, they provide shade and help improve soil quality through their leaf litter. 

In summary, the Chinese Toon tree is a versatile and culturally significant tree in Chinese culture, prized for its edible shoots, fragrant leaves, and durable timber. Its adaptability and multiple uses make it a valuable plant in various aspects of Chinese life, including cuisine, traditional medicine, and woodworking.

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