Tree of Heaven
Ailanthus altissima · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Simaroubaceae
Tree Category
Invasive Weed Tree / Urban Pioneer
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type (No specific cultivated varieties commonly used; highly invasive species)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, demonstrating wide temperature tolerance and severe adaptability to varied urban climates.
About This Tree
A fast-growing, deciduous tree with an upright, coarse, and spreading habit. Known for its aggressive growth rate, heavy seed production, and distinctive foul-smelling foliage when crushed. Forms dense thickets through root suckers.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, pinnately compound leaves ranging from 1 to 3 feet long, containing 10 to 41 leaflets. Leaflets are lance-shaped with entire margins except for one to two distinct glandular teeth near the base. Dark green above, paler underneath.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, light brown to gray bark when young, developing distinctive pale gray, vertical fissures and ridges resembling cantaloupe rind as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to central and northern China, and Taiwan; widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Australia.
Growing Season
Spring leaf-out occurs relatively late compared to native trees. Flowers bloom in late spring to early summer (June), followed by heavy production of winged samaras (seeds) through summer and autumn. Leaves turn yellow and drop in autumn, entering dormancy through winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun, highly adaptable to poor sunlight conditions during early establishment. Extremely drought tolerant once established, with minimal water needs and high tolerance for poor, compacted, or contaminated soils.
Mature Size
Reaches heights of 50 to 80 feet with a similar spread. Very fast-growing, often exceeding several feet of growth per year. Short-lived lifespan typically ranging from 30 to 50 years.
Special Characteristics
Notoriously invasive, producing allelopathic chemicals (ailanthone) that inhibit the growth of surrounding plants. Extremely high tolerance to urban pollution, poor soil, drought, and disturbance. Valued primarily as the primary host plant for the invasive Spotted Lanternfly.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides limited ecological value to native North American wildlife due to its toxic or foul-tasting foliage. Acts as a primary host and breeding ground for the invasive pest Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), creating significant ecological concerns.