Coast city looking to eradicate poisonous trees

PASCAGOULA — The Chinese tallow — or popcorn tree — is described as an invasive, noxious plant and they will soon be disappearing in Pascagoula.

The Mississippi Press reports the city’s Beau Beautification Division will begin removing all Chinese tallow trees right of ways and parks the first week in February.

The city will replace the trees this summer with crepe myrtles.

Plant experts at the Mississippi State University Extension office says the trees have been an appealing landscape choice for Mississippi homeowners because of its bright colors, pollen usage, and fast growth.

Experts say the Chinese tallow can tolerate a variety of environmental conditions, which allows the tree to easily establish hardy root systems that choke out native species.

The plant is also considered toxic to humans if ingested.