Is tree-of-heaven a native species?

No, Ailanthus altissima is native to China and Taiwan and is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe.

How fast does tree-of-heaven grow?

Tree-of-heaven is known for its extremely rapid growth rate, often growing over 3 meters (10 feet) per year in ideal conditions.

Why is tree-of-heaven considered invasive?

It spreads aggressively through seeds and root suckers, outcompeting native vegetation and disrupting ecosystems. It also releases chemicals that can harm other plants.

What are the signs of tree-of-heaven infestation?

Key indicators include compound leaves with glands at the base of leaflets, a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed, and rapid growth of many young trees from seeds or suckers.

How can I get rid of tree-of-heaven?

Removal is challenging. It often requires a combination of cutting the tree down and immediately applying a systemic herbicide to the stump to prevent resprouting from the roots.

Tree Of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) – Growing Guide, Benefits & Care

Tree-Of-Heaven Toxicity

Safety information from plant toxicity data

Toxicity details for Tree-Of-Heaven
Attribute	Value
Toxic for humans	No 0/5 intensity
Toxic for pets	No 0/5 intensity
Edible	No

Non-toxic

Tree-Of-Heaven Quick Facts

Key traits and growing stats from plant data

Plant Type: Tree
Plant Category: Ornamental
Plant Place Type: Garden
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Height: 15-25 m
Spread: 10-15 m
Tall Or Wide: tall
Growth Rate: Fast
Dormancy: Yes
Leaf Color: Green
Leaf Type: Compound
Flower Size: small
Optimal Sunlight (lux): 50000
Weed Status: Yes

Care guide for Tree-Of-Heaven

Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data

Water

Water young trees regularly until established. Once mature, Ailanthus altissima is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering.

Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, especially during dry spells, to prevent waterlogging.

Pruning

Pruning is primarily for structural improvement, removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. It can also be used to manage its rapid growth and invasive tendencies.

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins for best results.

Propagation

Ailanthus altissima is very easily propagated from seed, which remains viable for a long time. It also readily reproduces vegetatively through root suckers.

These suckers can be dug up and transplanted to establish new plants.

Repotting

Repotting is generally not necessary for established Ailanthus altissima trees. If grown in containers, repot only when root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, using a well-draining potting mix in a slightly larger container.

Identify plants like this with ePlant AI

Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.

Try for Free

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Jul

FloweringFruiting

Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · MarPeak fruit · Sep

FloweringFruiting

Image Gallery

Photos of Tree-Of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

Tree-Of-Heaven Names & Synonyms

Common names and botanical synonyms

Common Names

Ailanthus
Billey Niau (gv)
Black Walnut
China-Sumac
Chinese Sumac
Chinese Sumach
Chinese Tree-Of-Heaven
Copal Tree
Crann Na Ndéithe (ga)
Dreve
False Sumac
Ghetto Palm
Glandulous-Leaved Ailante
Gold Country Tree
Japanese Varnish Tree
Mirigyes Bálványfa
Not-A-Tree
Oțetar (ro)
Pajaseň
Paradise Tree
Sans!? Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun
Skink Tree
Stinking Cedar
Stinking Quassia
Stinking Sumac
Stinktree
Sumac Tree
Swingle
Tree Of Heaven
Tree-From-Hell-That-Will-Not-Be-Killed
Tree-Of-Heaven
Varnishtree
אילנתה בלוטית
درخت بهشت
عرعر

Synonyms

Toxicodendron altissimum Mill.

Tree-Of-Heaven Taxonomy

Botanical classification

Taxonomic classification of Tree-Of-Heaven
Rank	Name
Kingdom	Plantae
Division	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Sapindales
Family	Simaroubaceae
Genus	Ailanthus
Species	Ailanthus altissima

Similar Plants

Similar in genus Ailanthus

Indian Tree-Of-Heaven

Ailanthus excelsa

Ailanthus fordii

Ferntop Ash

Ailanthus triphysa

White Siris

Ailanthus integrifolia

Tree-Of-Heaven FAQs

Answers based on plant encyclopedia data

Is tree-of-heaven a native species?
No, Ailanthus altissima is native to China and Taiwan and is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe.
How fast does tree-of-heaven grow?
Tree-of-heaven is known for its extremely rapid growth rate, often growing over 3 meters (10 feet) per year in ideal conditions.
Why is tree-of-heaven considered invasive?
It spreads aggressively through seeds and root suckers, outcompeting native vegetation and disrupting ecosystems. It also releases chemicals that can harm other plants.
What are the signs of tree-of-heaven infestation?
Key indicators include compound leaves with glands at the base of leaflets, a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed, and rapid growth of many young trees from seeds or suckers.
How can I get rid of tree-of-heaven?
Removal is challenging. It often requires a combination of cutting the tree down and immediately applying a systemic herbicide to the stump to prevent resprouting from the roots.

Tree-Of-HeavenAilanthus altissima

Tree-Of-Heaven Care Summary