SafePlants

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

The Tree of Heaven, scientifically known as Ailanthus altissima, is a rapidly growing deciduous tree that has garnered both admiration and concern across the globe.

Common Names: This tree is recognized by a multitude of names, including stinking sumac, Chinese sumac, varnishtree, stinktree, paradise-tree and copal tree.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

• Scientific Name: Ailanthus altissima (P. Mill) Swingle
• Family: Simaroubaceae
• Synonyms: Ailanthus glandulosa (mentioned in text as a synonym)

Considerations for Pets:

• The text mentions a "stinktree" which may deter some animals, but it's important to consider that the smell may still be unpleasant, especially if foliage is bruised.

Considerations for Children:

• The sap of the tree has been associated with skin rashes in one documented case involving a tree surgeon.

Distribution and Habitat:

• Native to Northeastern and Central China and Taiwan.
• Widely planted in gardens, streets, and parks in Europe and North America.
• Has naturalized and spread in many regions, including the UK and the USA.

Ecological Role:

• Considered an invasive species in many regions outside its native range.
• Known for its tolerance of poor soil conditions, even growing in cement cracks.
• Can be aggressive and persistent, outcompeting native vegetation.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits:

• A rapidly growing deciduous tree, capable of reaching heights of 60 feet (18 meters) or more.
• Characterized by pale gray bark.
• Possesses large pinnate leaves, resembling those of ash, sumac, or walnut.
• Male trees have ill-scented staminate flowers.

Quirky Facts:

• The Tree of Heaven was dubbed as such due to its eagerness to reach up to the sky.
• Despite its name, it's also referred to as the "tree of hell" by some, reflecting its invasive nature.
• The leaves emit a rank odor when bruised.

Historical Context and Uses:

• Has a long history in China, mentioned in ancient dictionaries and medical texts.
• Introduced to Europe and the UK as an ornamental species.

Interactions with Other Organisms:

• Mentioned as being a persistent and aggressive weed throughout much of Europe and North America.
• There is mention of a Penn State researcher finding wilt and death in a tree-of-heaven grove in a southwestern Pennsylvania forest in 2003.

Further Information:

• The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers help and information on Ailanthus altissima.
• The USDA's National Invasive Species Information Center has a species profile for Tree-of-Heaven.
• WebMD provides patient medical information.
• The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has a fact sheet on the species.