Ailanthus altissima — the tree of heaven — is a quick-growing tree you’ll spot along roads, in vacant lots, and on riverbanks. It tolerates poor soil, pollution, and regular pruning, which is why it spreads so fast. Leaves are long and feather-like; look for many glossy leaflets with a tiny thorn or gland at the base. Bark is smooth and gray on young trees, becoming furrowed with age. In summer it may produce clusters of yellow-green flowers and in fall a swarm of winged seeds (samaras).
People notice Ailanthus for three reasons: it’s everywhere, it grows fast, and it disrupts other plants. It creates dense shade and releases chemicals into soil that can slow nearby seedlings. That mix of speed and chemistry lets it outcompete native trees and shrubs. On the flip side, some bees and insects do use its flowers for food, and some wildlife eats the seeds.
Parts of Ailanthus have been used in traditional medicine in Asia for a long time. Modern lab work has isolated compounds such as ailanthone and other quassinoids. These chemicals show activity in cell studies—researchers have tested them for antimicrobial and anticancer effects in the lab. That sounds promising, but most results are early-stage and done in petri dishes or animals. Don’t assume the tree is a safe or approved medicine without clinical trials and doctor guidance.
If you’re curious about herbal use, be cautious: extracts can be toxic at the wrong dose and may interact with medicines. Always talk with a qualified healthcare provider before trying any herbal product based on Ailanthus.
Managing Ailanthus in the landscape requires persistence. Young shoots pull up easily, but mature trees resprout from roots after cutting. Effective control often combines repeated cutting with targeted herbicide to the stump or digging out the root crown. Burning or single cuts rarely work long term. For small properties, remove seedlings early and keep an eye on root suckers for several seasons.
For city dwellers, the tree’s rapid growth can crack pavement and invade drains. If you need to remove a tree near utilities, contact local services—doing it yourself can be risky. When planting, choose native alternatives that support local wildlife and won’t spread aggressively.
Want to learn more? Look for regional extension services or invasive species groups for practical ID tips and removal guides. They offer photos, seasonal timing hints, and step-by-step removal plans specific to your area.
Identification tips make removal easier. Check compound leaves: each leaf can reach 2 to 4 feet and includes 10–41 pointed leaflets with a smooth edge and a small reddish gland at the base of each leaflet. When seeds fall, they form a long mass that can cover the ground and feed into wind and water to spread widely. Note the strong, somewhat unpleasant smell when leaves or inner bark are crushed. If you plan control work, start in spring before heavy seed set and follow up for at least three years. Stay vigilant.
Tree of Heaven, a traditional plant remedy, is now the talk among wellness seekers. This article digs into its health perks, what makes it unique, and how people are using it as a supplement. We look at real research, myths versus reality, and even share practical advice for adding it to your routine. Find out why this centuries-old herb is seeing a modern surge and what you should watch for before trying it.