How to identify Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
Tree of heaven, also known as Chinese Sumac, Paradise tree, Tree of hell, Varnish tree
Tree of heaven typically exhibits a robust, straight trunk and can reach heights of 49 to 82 feet (15 to 25 meters). Its bark is smooth and pale gray when young, developing a more rough and furrowed appearance with age. The compound leaves are quite large, often 1 to 4 feet (30 to 120 cm) in length, with 10 to 41 leaflets that are lanceolate and possess smooth margins. In the summer, tree of heaven produces panicles of small, yellow-green flowers. Its seeds are housed in samaras that are wind-dispersed in the fall.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Tree
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Large compound leaves, 10-41 lanceolate leaflets, 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) long.
Smooth pale gray bark, becoming rough and furrowed with age.
Yellow-green flowers in panicles, emitting a foul odor.
Distinctive samaras with twisted papery wings, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.
Light chestnut brown stem emitting foul odor when broken, thin twigs, zigzag branching.
Tree of heaven leaves are pinnately compound, measuring 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) in length. Each leaf consists of 10-41 leaflets, each featuring a glandular, notched base and serrations restricted to the base. The margins of the leaflets are otherwise entire (smooth-edged). The leaves are generally green but do not show prominent fall color. Crushed leaves can emit a foul odor. The overall leaf structure is a key identification feature of tree of heaven.
Tree of heaven flowers form large, showy clusters that measure 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) in length. The blossoms are yellow-green in color and typically bloom from May to June. Each individual flower is small but collectively, they create a striking display. Notably, the flowers can emit a foul odor. The clusters are an important identifying feature, with their distinct color and scent being quite characteristic.
The stem of tree of heaven is light chestnut brown, exhibiting a smooth texture. When broken, the stem emits a foul odor, which is a distinctive characteristic. The twigs are typically thin, measuring around 0.4–0.8 inches (1–2 cm) in diameter, and display a consistent light chestnut color. Branching occurs alternately, creating a zigzag pattern. Stems are sturdy but flexible, enhancing their resilience and adaptability. These features make the stem a key identifier for tree of heaven.
The fruit of tree of heaven manifests as large, drooping clusters of distinctive, flat and twisted fruits, known as samaras. These winged fruits adopt a reddish-brown hue as they mature, contributing to their peculiar appearance. Each samara is embellished with a singular central seed, encased by papery wings that facilitate wind dispersal. These wings spread out, roughly resembling a helicopter blade, which enables the seeds to glide away from the parent. The samaras can measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length, typically appearing in late summer and persisting on the tree well into the winter.
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Scientific Classification of Tree of heaven
