Chinaberry, sometimes called Umbrella tree, is a native of Asia, brought to the United States in the 17th century. It is an invasive tree with suckers growing from the roots sometimes forming hedges. The sweet-smelling flowers have five white petals surrounding a purple tube. The fruit is considered poisonous to humans and small mammals although I have known ground squirrels to eat them. The seed is hard and woody and can germinate even after being dried for many years.
These trees grow throughout the United States, especially in the south. Here in California, we have many of them in yards as ornamental trees.
The seeds have an interesting fluted shape and a natural hole through the center. Whether dyed or natural, they make perfect beads for jewelry.
• Pick as many berries as you can use. Wash them and remove the stem.
• Boil the berries over the stove for 20 minutes, or in the microwave for 5 minutes.
• Cool to handle and slip off the outer peel and pulp. Wash and towel dry.
• Prepare food coloring dyes in cups, using ½ cup water, 1 teaspoon vinegar, desired food coloring per cup.
• Dip seeds in dye and allow to steep in dye for desired color intensity. The longer the exposure, the deeper the color.
• String as desired using string elastic or fishing line. Accent with glass or plastic beads as desired.
