Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

Tree of Heaven: Ailanthus altissima, or the tree of heaven, is a fast-growing tree that can reach as tall as seventy feet at maturity. The leaves resemble those of sumac. Others note that the three-foot leaves create a palm-like effect.

When customers call TN Nursery requesting information on a tree that requires almost zero care, we often recommend this species. This tree thrives where others may fail.

It cares nothing about soil quality, fertilizers, or water. It is cold-hardy, heat-tolerant, drought-resistant, pest-resistant, and disease-resistant. You must only put it in a sunny spot in a quick-draining location; it does not like wet roots.

Tree of Heaven Grows Prolifically

The Tree of Heaven is a Chinese native species well-adapted in the United States. It originally arrived in New York City in 1820 as an ornamental species.

Across North America today, it grows naturally along ditch banks, at the edges of woods, as ornamentals in yards, and planted on slopes to prevent the need for mowing or weed-eating. Because it grows in thickets, it also provides a wind-break where needed.

Underground roots create shoots in a quick reproduction cycle that will help you fill in bare areas in record time.

Ailanthus altissima: One Tree, Many Names

Besides Tree of Heaven, which describes the fast growth of this species, seemingly reaching to the skies, Ailanthus altissima has these other common names:

• Ailanthus
• Chinese sumac
• Copal Tree
• Deerwort
• Hardy Age
• Milk Ipecac
• Mist Flower
• Paradise-tree
• Rich Weed
• Stinking sumac
• Varnish tree
• White Sanicle
• White Snakeroot

If you see these names, they each refer to the same species.

The Stately Appearance of the Tree of Heaven

The light green, elliptically-shaped, compound leaves have distinctly notched bases on each leaflet and serrated teeth at the edges.

Springtime brings large clusters of golden flowers that make way for fruits that will attract many birds.

Order Your Tree of Heaven From TN Nursery

If you want a fast-growing tree that will multiply to fill in a natural area, TN Nursery recommends the Tree of Heaven for the job. Order today.