Tree of Heaven
Ailanthus altissima · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Invasive Hardwood
Plant Family
Simaroubaceae
Tree Category
Invasive species, Shade tree (incidental)
Variety / Cultivar
None (Wild-type species)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 8.
About This Tree
A fast-growing, aggressive deciduous tree with a wide, spreading crown. Often seen in urban disturbed sites. It features large, pinnately compound leaves and clusters of samaras. It has a distinct foul odor often compared to rancid peanut butter when leaves or stems are crushed.
Leaf Characteristics
Large pinnately compound leaves (1-4 feet long) with 11-41 leaflets. Leaflets are lance-shaped with a smooth margin except for one or two glandular teeth at the base. Arrangement is alternate.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and light grey on young trees, becoming slightly fissured or resembling the skin of a cantaloupe as it matures. Soft wood and easily damaged.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Northeast and Central China; widely naturalized and invasive across North America, Europe, and Australia.
Growing Season
Late leafing (late spring), flowering in early summer, seeds maturing in late summer/fall, dormant in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade. Extremely adaptable to poor soil, drought, and high pollution; thrives in urban neglected areas.
Mature Size
Can reach 60-80 feet in height with a spread of 35-50 feet. Extremely fast growth rate (up to 3-5 feet per year). Lifespan is relatively short, often 30-50 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly invasive due to prolific seeding and clonal root suckering. It produces allelopathic chemicals (ailanthone) that inhibit the growth of surrounding plants. High tolerance to air pollution and road salt.
Wildlife & Ecology
Primary host for the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). Provides minimal value to native wildlife compared to native species and actively displaces native forest ecosystems.