May be invasive in some regions. Click to learn more →
tree-of-heaven
Ailanthus altissima
tree☀️ full sun💧 low waterZone 5a – Zone 9b
A fast-growing deciduous tree with feathery compound leaves and small greenish flowers followed by winged seed pods. Highly invasive in many regions; grows aggressively in poor soil and disturbed areas.
Overview
Form
Spreading
Growth Rate
fast
Size
40–55′ tall × 30–60′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Tolerances & Soil
moderate
Flood Tolerance
moderate
Zone 5aZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 5a to Zone 9b
pH Range
4.17.9
7.0
3.556.589
pH range: 4.1 to 7.9
Soil Texture
Coarse, Medium, Fine
Seasonality
Bloom Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Season of Interest
SpringSummer
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
pioneerearly successional
Native Range
Eastern Asia
Function & Care
biomass/mulchdynamic accumulatorwindbreak
Coppicing
Establishment & Care
Establishment
easy
Maintenance
high
Propagation
seed, sucker, root cutting
Notable Cultivars
'Erythrocarpa' produces red seed pods instead of the typical tan color. Most cultivars are not widely distinguished in commerce; the species itself dominates cultivation.
