Tree-of-heaven
Ailanthus altissima
Also listed as Toxicodendron altissimum
Also known as Stink Tree, Chinese Tree-of-heaven, Chinese Sumac
Climate Match for your location
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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.
Why grow it
Tree-of-heaven establishes rapidly in degraded soils and urban sites where many ornamental species struggle, making it useful for quick canopy establishment in remediation contexts. However, native alternatives such as black locust or native ash species typically offer better wildlife value and less aggressive spread in most permaculture settings.
Watch out for
This species produces allelopathic compounds that can suppress undergrowth, reducing its suitability as a nurse crop in polyculture systems. Roots are shallow and aggressive, potentially competing strongly with nearby plantings or damaging hardscape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Simaroubaceae
Native Range
Eastern Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
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.
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Tree-of-heaven grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Tree-of-heaven establishes rapidly in degraded soils and urban sites where many ornamental species struggle, making it useful for quick canopy establishment in remediation contexts. However, native alternatives such as black locust or native ash species typically offer better wildlife value and less aggressive spread in most permaculture settings.
Watch out for
This species produces allelopathic compounds that can suppress undergrowth, reducing its suitability as a nurse crop in polyculture systems. Roots are shallow and aggressive, potentially competing strongly with nearby plantings or damaging hardscape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Simaroubaceae
Native Range
Eastern Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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Companion Planting
Plants well with
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.