Tree-of-Heaven - Ailanthus altissima

Ailanthus is the Latinized version of the native Moluccan, ailanto, meaning sky tree; altissima means very tall. Native to northern china, Tree-of-Heaven is one of the most adaptable trees in city conditions, growing where most other plants will not.

This tree is known almost nationwide as a “weed” and has been dubbed “the tree that grows in Brooklyn.” While it is true that this tree has a poor reputation in some areas, it has much to recommend it for here. Many people may not be aware of the fact that there are varieties of the Tree-of-Heaven. Most noted is A. altissima erythrocarpa, a selection with bright red rather than the usual brown, winged fruit.

A native of China, this species has become naturalized in the eastern United States and was planted as far back as 1784. In many cities the male plant is not planted because the flowers have a disagreeable odor.

The tree is dependable, particularly in our often difficult soils, producing a handsome, dark green compound foliage. Some say it may also be a city tree because it has exhibited a considerable resistance to pollutants.

While it has a reputation for brittle wood, the large compound leaves drop off early and detach readily, thus rarely suffering in an untimely snow strom.

Another feature of the tree that has given it a bad reputation is the tend. dency to sprout root suckers. This, however, usually is mag nifie by severe top pruning. By planting the tree in the proper location where it can have plenty of space, little or no pruning should be needed. As a result, there will be less root suckering.

The Tree-of-Heaven may not be one that should be planted in every yard, but it does have its place in the city treescape.

Other Denver locations

Everywhere.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tree_of_Heaven