Verniciflua

Verniciflua is a Latin epithet used in the scientific names of several plants, meaning “lacquer-bearing.” It is most prominently associated with Toxicodendron vernicifluum (syn. Rhus verniciflua), the lacquer tree native to East Asia, whose sap is used to make traditional urushi lacquer.

Taxonomy and distribution: Verniciflua occurs in the binomials of species placed in the Anacardiaceae family. The best-known example is Toxicodendron vernicifluum, formerly Rhus verniciflua. This tree is native to China, Korea, and Japan and has been cultivated elsewhere for lacquer production.

Description: The lacquer tree is a deciduous to semi-evergreen tree that can reach several metres in height. It typically has pinnate leaves with multiple leaflets, small greenish flowers, and produced drupes as fruit. The tree’s value lies primarily in its sap, not in ornamental features.

Urushi lacquer production: The key property associated with verniciflua is the sap containing urushiol, which polymerizes to form a hard, glossy lacquer. Harvesting involves wounding the trunk to collect fresh sap, which is then aged and processed. Applying urushi lacquer requires layering on prepared surfaces, with drying and curing occurring in humid conditions over extended periods, often months to years, yielding a durable film used on wood and pottery.

Safety and notes: Urushiol exposure can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Handling the sap or freshly cut material typically requires protective equipment. Once cured, the lacquer film is generally inert, but careful processing remains essential.

See also: urushi lacquer, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Rhus verniciflua.