Vernicia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Euphorbiaceae. It includes several species, most notably Vernicia fordii, commonly known as the tung tree. This tree is native to East Asia and is valued for its seeds, which produce tung oil, a drying oil used in paints and varnishes. The tung tree typically grows to about 10-20 meters in height and has large, heart-shaped leaves. It produces small, white flowers that develop into fruit containing seeds. The oil extracted from these seeds is prized for its water resistance and durability, making it useful in various industrial applications.