Tree-of-Heaven
Ailanthus altissima
Tree-of-heaven is also known as stinking sumac and ailanthus. (Image courtesy James Gaither/Flickr)
In the summer, the tree-of-heaven produces flat, twisted, single-seeded winged fruits. (Image courtesy Matt Levin/Flickr)
Tree-of-heaven's leaves grow to be one to four feet in length, and contain between 11 and 25 smaller leaflets. (Image courtesy Pflanzen Vielfalt/Wikimedia Commons)
Tree-of-heaven establishes dense stands, blocking native plants. (Image courtesy Angela M. O./Flickr)
It's estimated that one tree can produce 325,000 seeds in a year. (Image courtesy Karduelis/Wikimedia Commons)
Tree-of-Heaven is a quick-growing, invasive tree that can be found throughout the Chesapeake region.
Appearance
Tree-of-heaven has smooth, gray bark with chestnut brown twigs. It's leaves are large, growing to be one to four feet in length, and contain between 11 and 25 smaller leaflets. In June, it produces large clusters of small yellowish-green flowers, some of which have an unpleasant odor. Come summer, the female trees produce flat, twisted, single-seeded winged fruits.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Tree-of-heaven grows quickly and is a prolific seeder. It's estimated that one tree can produce 325,000 seeds in a year. Tree-of-heaven also contains chemicals that act as a herbicide, affecting the growth of plants around it. It establishes dense stands and blocks native plants. The tree reproduces through seeds and vigorous resprouting, particularly in response to injury.
Did You Know?
- Tree-of-heaven is also known as stinking sumac and ailanthus.
- Before removing tree-of-heaven, be sure you are not mistaking it for staghorn sumac, ash or walnut.
- Tree-of-heaven was first introduced in the United States in 1784, and by the 1840s was commercially available.
Sources and Additional Information
- Ailanthus altissima - U.S. Forest Service
- Invasive Plant Manual - Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Control
- National Invasive Species Information Center - U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Library
- Tree of Heaven - National Park Service
Quick Facts
Species
Invasive
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Size
Can reach 70 feet in height -
Habitat
Tree-of-heaven is an invasive species in the United States. It is highly adaptable, grows in full sun and is tolerant of drought.
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Range
Native to China and Taiwan, tree-of-heaven can now be found in 30 states, including the entire Chesapeake region.
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Lifespan
30 to 70 years -
Status
Stable