Tree of Heaven is a fast-growing tree many people spot along roads, vacant lots, and old fields. It’s easy to miss until it flowers or drops its long clusters of papery seeds. You’ve probably seen its big, glossy compound leaves or smelled the strong, somewhat unpleasant odor when a leaf is crushed. The tree is known both as an invasive weed and as a source of traditional herbal ingredients, so it often raises two questions: how do I recognize it, and is it useful or risky?
Look for pinnate leaves with 10–41 leaflets, each toothed near the base. The tree reaches 30–50 feet in open areas and has smooth gray bark when young. In summer it forms large clusters of small yellow-green flowers; in fall you’ll notice long, winged seed pods (samaras) that spin down like little helicopters. If you crush the leaf or bark you’ll get a strong, bitter smell—an easy field test. These features separate it from similar trees like walnut or sumac.
In parts of Asia the bark and roots of Ailanthus have been used in traditional medicine for things like digestive complaints and to treat parasites. Scientists have isolated compounds called quassinoids (ailanthone is one) that show biological activity in lab tests. That doesn’t mean the tree is a safe, proven medicine for everyday use. Human studies are limited, and doses in lab work don’t translate directly to safe herbal doses. If you’re curious about a supplement from this plant, buy from a reputable vendor and talk to a healthcare provider first.
Also know that the plant can cause skin irritation in some people. There are reports of contact dermatitis after handling the tree or its sap. Livestock may avoid it, and it can harm young garden plants by releasing chemicals into the soil (allelopathy). Those are real, practical risks to keep in mind.
If you plan to harvest, don’t pick from busy roads or polluted sites—trees pull up heavy metals from soil. Use gloves when handling, dry or process material properly, and label anything you store. For buying, look for third-party testing and clear sourcing information from TCM or herbal suppliers.
On the other side, Tree of Heaven is a nuisance in many regions. It spreads quickly by root suckers and by seeds. If you want to remove it, cut young trees low and dig out as much root as possible; leaving the rootstock often just makes more shoots. Repeatedly cutting new shoots or using targeted, labeled herbicide methods (follow local rules) usually controls it best. For large infestations, call local invasive-plant specialists.
Want to learn more? Search trusted herbal references or ask a botanist at a local extension office. If you’re considering any therapeutic use, check with your doctor—especially if you take other meds, are pregnant, or have chronic conditions.
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.