The Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive plant. Also known as Chinese sumac, it is a persistent and aggressive weed throughout Europe and North America. Ailanthus grows quickly and can reach a height of 8 feet in its first year; ultimately these trees are 80-100 feet. It flowers in late May through early June and may produce several hundred flowers each year, each containing hundreds of seeds. Single trees may produce up to 350,000 seeds in one year. Seeds are small, easily dispersed by wind, and mostly viable. Trees also reproduce readily via root sprouts that can emerge up to 50 feet from the nearest trunk. Once established, its primary mode of reproduction is through root suckers. The compound leaves of tree-of-heaven resemble those of staghorn sumac, but tree-of-heaven can be distinguished by its foul-smelling leaves.
A recent BLT work party tackled a cliff-side cluster of Ailanthus altissima at the Beacon Hill Preserve.
(Source: CT Invasive Plant Working Group)
