Tree of Heaven and Spotted Lanternfly: Why Every Plant Lover Should Know About This

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Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive tree that spreads quickly and is the preferred host of the spotted lanternfly, a serious pest. Knowing how to identify both helps you report and manage them and protect your landscape.

The USDA and state agencies link tree of heaven to spotted lanternfly spread; the pest is established in multiple states. Use ePlant to identify trees and plants; for official reporting, follow your state's agriculture or extension guidelines. For other invasives, see our invasive plants to avoid.

Identifying Tree of Heaven

Compound leaves with many leaflets; each leaflet has a small gland near the base. Crushed leaves and bark smell like burnt peanut butter or rubber. Bark is smooth and pale when young. It can look like sumac or walnut; the smell and leaf glands help distinguish it. Do not confuse with native sumac or black walnut.

Identifying Spotted Lanternfly

Adults are about 1 inch; gray wings with black spots; red hind wings when flying. Nymphs are black with white spots, then red and black with white spots. They cluster on stems and leaves and excrete honeydew. If you see them, report to your state agriculture department; do not transport plants or materials that could spread eggs or insects.

Removing tree of heaven (where allowed and safe) can reduce lanternfly habitat. Always follow local regulations and get professional help for large trees. Use ePlant to confirm tree ID and our encyclopedia for more plant info.