SafePlants

Ailanthus: The Tree of Heaven

Ailanthus is a genus of trees within the Simaroubaceae family, known for its fast growth and, in some cases, invasive tendencies.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Ailanthus altissima is also known as "stinking sumac" and "stinktree," suggesting it may have a distinct odor that could be of interest to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions the tree's tendency to spread through root sprouts, meaning young sprouts might be easily accessible and potentially ingested or handled by children.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle
• Common Names: Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus, Chinese Sumac, Stinking Sumac, Varnish tree, Stinktree, Paradise tree, Copal tree, Brooklyn palm, Baked sewage tree, Ghetto palm, Kerosene tree, Lacquer tree. In Standard Chinese, it is known as chouchun (??).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Ailanthus
• Family: Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
• Order: Sapindales (formerly Rutales or Geraniales)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northeast and central China and Taiwan.
• Widely naturalized and considered invasive in many regions, including the US Midwest, Missi, California and Virginia.

Ecological Role

• Ailanthus altissima is frequently cited as an invasive species. It can form dense stands, displace native trees, and is tolerant of shading and saturated soils.
• Conservationists have expressed concern over its spread, even suggesting it be banned.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous tree, typically small but can grow rapidly up to 80 ft (24.4 m) in height and 6 ft (1.8 m) in diameter.
• The text notes rapid growth and the development of an open canopy with stout branches.
• Leaves are pinnate and can be quite large, ranging from 1 to 3 feet in length.
• Gray bark.

Quirky Facts

• Despite its common name "Tree of Heaven," some now call it the "Tree of Hell" due to its invasive nature.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Ailanthus Webworm Moths are known to be associated with the tree.
• The tree is described as capable of "poisoning" the surrounding soil, presumably inhibiting the growth of other plants.

Resources and Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• USDA's National Invasive Species Information Center
• Midwest Invasive Plant Network