Tree of Heaven
ailanthus altissima
Also known as: ["Stinking Sumac","Stinking Cedar","Ghetto Palm"]
Overview
A rapidly growing deciduous tree known for its invasive nature and unpleasant odor, especially from its crushed leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus: | Ailanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Ailanthus altissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: urban areas, disturbed sites, or as a specimen tree in large landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−20–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Adaptable to various soils but prefers well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may grow less vigorously.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young plants to full sun gradually to avoid scorching; place in a location with unobstructed sunlight; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure no obstructions block sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, adaptable to various soil types
pH: Adaptable pH range (6.0–7.5); tolerates slightly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soil with organic matter; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 100°F; prefers moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and shading as needed; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; water thoroughly after applying fertilizer; use a balanced NPK ratio (e.g., 10-10-10).
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or root suckers; stem cuttings are more common for controlled propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss blend); can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth; removal of suckers at the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, shape, and remove dead or diseased wood; encourage strong structure and airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; remove dead or crossing branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during extreme heat or cold.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during growing season; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; young or weak plants may die back in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect young plants with frost cloth; avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrient levels; apply fertilizer at recommended rates; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with plant stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm growth; reduce or stop fertilizing in late fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest parts of Ailanthus altissima. The plant's toxic components can lead to discomfort but are unlikely to cause severe poisoning unless consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Ailanthus altissima. The plant's toxic compounds can cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening unless ingested in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAilanthus altissima contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's leaves, seeds, and bark contain toxic principles that may lead to discomfort if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tree of Heaven toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Why is it called Tree of Heaven?
A: The name is derived from its native range in China, where it was considered sacred and planted near temples.
Q: How can I control its spread?
A: Regularly remove seedlings and cut down mature trees, as they can resprout vigorously from the roots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Simaroubaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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