Tree of Heaven

Ailanthus altissima

Plant Type

Deciduous tree

Height

40-80ft

Introduction / Invasiveness

- It was first introduced from its native China into the U. S. in 1751, it has been planted because it is fast-growing, resistant to pollution, and provides ample shade

- Can form large colonies that choke out native species, it is extremely hardy and fast growing with aggressive root suckering

Flower / Fruit

- Flowers bloom from spring to summer, appearing as a yellowish green to reddish color

- Male fruit: grows in clusters in the summer and turn a bright reddish-brown color when ripe

- Female fruit: Thin seed packets that turn from green to red or brown and can helicopter on the wind or float on water to disperse