The details
As of May 6, the city has cleared 12 acres of Chinese tallow trees at Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Clear Creek Nature Center as part of a multiyear land restoration initiative, according to a news flash from the city.
The Chinese tallow tree has heart-shaped leaves and threatens local ecosystems by outcompeting native species and altering habitats, which can reduce biodiversity and impact soil health, according to the news flash.
The city recommends residents with property, especially over an acre, look for trees with heart-shaped leaves. Chinese tallow trees require complete removal, including the root system, to prevent regrowth.
What they’re saying
“After 10 to 15 years, you can have a small Chinese tallow sapling just develop and turn into ... a 20-to-30-foot. tall tree,” Parks Coordinator John Orsag said in a video released by the city.
One more thing
Homeowners can download the plant-identifier app Picture This to confirm if it's a Chinese tallow tree, officials said.
League City Arborist Heather McKnight and Orsag are available for guidance and can be reached at [email protected] and [email protected].
