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Description
Ailanthus Altissima, commonly known as the Tree of Heaven, is a deciduous tree native to China but has been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Africa. It can grow up to 80 feet tall and has a diameter of up to 6 feet. It has a straight trunk with light brown to gray bark with white lenticels. The leaves are compound, pinnate, and can grow up to 3 feet long. The flowers are greenish-yellow and bloom in the summer. The tree produces winged seeds that are about 1 inch long and can be carried long distances by the wind.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Ailanthus |
Appearance
The Ailanthus Altissima tree has an open, spreading crown and a straight trunk. The bark is light brown to gray and has white lenticels. The leaves are compound, pinnate, and can grow up to 3 feet long with 11-41 leaflets. The leaflets are lanceolate and have a pale green color. The flowers are greenish-yellow and bloom in the summer in clusters up to 2 feet long. The tree produces winged seeds that are about 1 inch long and can be carried long distances by the wind.
Care Guide
Ailanthus Altissima trees are easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
Water: The tree can tolerate drought conditions but will grow better with regular watering.
Fertilization: The tree does not require much fertilization but can benefit from an application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The tree can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ailanthus Altissima trees are relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to some pests and diseases, such as:
Pests: The tree can attract scales, caterpillars, and aphids.
Diseases: The tree can be susceptible to verticillium wilt and canker diseases.
Habitat
Ailanthus Altissima trees are native to China but have been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Africa. They can grow in a wide range of habitats, including disturbed areas, fields, and urban areas. They can tolerate pollution and drought conditions and can grow in a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Ailanthus Altissima tree invasive?
A: Yes, the Ailanthus Altissima tree is considered invasive in some areas because it can grow rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.
Q: Can the Ailanthus Altissima tree be used for lumber?
A: Yes, the wood of the Ailanthus Altissima tree is hard and durable and can be used for lumber and furniture.
Q: Is the Ailanthus Altissima tree toxic?
A: Yes, the tree can produce a toxic compound in its bark, leaves, and fruit that can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Q: Can the Ailanthus Altissima tree be pruned?
A: Yes, the tree can be pruned to control its size and shape. However, pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the tree.
Related Plants
- Ailanthus Excelsa
- Ailanthus Malabarica
- Ailanthus Integrifolia
- Ailanthus Triphysa
References
- “Ailanthus Altissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286804&isprofile=1&basic=Ailanthus%20altissima
- “Tree of Heaven.” Invasive Species Compendium. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/46585
- “Ailanthus Altissima.” USDA Forest Service. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/ailalt/all.html
