Tree-of-Heaven Overview

Invasive Tree

The tree-of-heaven, Ailanthus altissima, is an invasive tree that has been documented in 45 states including California (Kron).  It is a rapidly growing deciduous tree native to both northeast and central China, as well as Taiwan. It grows almost anywhere including the side of roadways, railways, fencerows, and in forest openings.

As a preferred host of the spotted lanternfly, tree of heaven is an excellent plant to look for this pest.  The tree has several distinct features to help identify it.

Size: Tree-of-heaven has rapid growth and can grow into a large tree, reaching heights of 80 feet and up to 6 feet in diameter.

Bark: The bark of tree-of-heaven is smooth and brownish-green when young, eventually turning light brown to gray, resembling the skin of a cantaloupe.

Leaves: Tree-of-heaven leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they have a central stem in which leaflets are attached on each side. One leaf can range in length from 1 to 4 feet with anywhere from 10 to 40 leaflets. The leaflets are lance-shaped with smooth or "entire" margins. At the base of each leaflet are one to two protruding bumps called glandular teeth. When crushed, the leaves and all plant parts give off a strong, offensive odor.

Twigs: The twigs of tree-of-heaven are alternate on the tree, stout, greenish to brown in color, and lack a terminal bud. They have large V- or heart-shaped leaf scars. The twigs easily break to expose the large, spongy, brown center, or pith.

Seeds: Seeds on female trees are a 1-to-2-inch-long twisted samara, or wing. There is one seed per samara. The samaras are found in clusters, which often hang on the tree through winter.