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Ailanthus altissima
tree of heaven
Central and northern China, Taiwan; disturbed sites, forest edges, and urban areas in its introduced rangeLearn more
Overview
Ailanthus altissima is tree of heaven (stinking sumac), a deciduous tree growing 40-80 feet (12-24 m) tall and 30-50 feet (9-15 m) wide. Large pinnately compound leaves with 11-25 leaflets, each 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long, with 1-2 glandular teeth at the base of each leaflet. Yellow-green flowers in terminal panicles 8-16 inches (20-40 cm) in June-July — male flowers have a strong unpleasant odor. Dioecious. Female trees produce twisted samaras in large persistent clusters — over 300,000 seeds per year per tree. In Simaroubaceae. Native to central and northern China. Classified as invasive in most US states and many countries worldwide — one of the most aggressively invasive trees in North America. Spreads by prolific seed production and aggressive root suckering. The root system produces allelopathic chemicals (ailanthone) that inhibit surrounding plant growth. Tolerates extreme conditions — pollution, compacted soil, salt, drought, pH 4.5-8.0, and any soil type. Grows 36-60 inches (90-150 cm) per year. Cutting the trunk without concurrent herbicide treatment stimulates vigorous re-sprouting from roots. The crushed foliage has an unpleasant odor (rancid peanuts). The sap can cause contact dermatitis. The preferred host of the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). All parts toxic to pets and humans. Zones 4-9. Full sun. Growth rate is very fast.
Native Range
Native to central and northern China and Taiwan. Classified as invasive in most US states and many countries worldwide.Suggested Uses
Classified as invasive in most US states — planting is not recommended and is prohibited in some jurisdictions. Included in the database for identification and management reference. Check local invasive species regulations. All parts toxic. Zones 4-9.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height40' - 80'
Width/Spread30' - 50'
Reaches mature size in approximately 8 years
Bloom Information
Early summer (June-July). Yellow-green flowers in terminal panicles 8-16 inches (20-40 cm). Male flowers have a strong unpleasant odor. 4 weeks of bloom. Dioecious. Wind- and insect-pollinated. Female trees produce twisted samaras — 300,000+ seeds per year.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Yellow-green, small, in terminal panicles 8-16 inches (20-40 cm) long; male flowers have a strong unpleasant odorFoliage Description
Medium green, pinnately compound with 11-25 leaflets, each leaflet 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long with 1-2 glandular teeth at the base; the crushed foliage has an unpleasant odor often compared to rancid peanuts or burned rubberGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight