Typical tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima var. altissima)

Tree of heaven Ghetto palm Stinking sumac

Ailanthus altissima var. altissima: The Typical Tree of Heaven

Spreading aggressively across urban and rural landscapes worldwide, Ailanthus altissima var. altissima demonstrates remarkable resilience and adaptability. Native to China, this typical variety has naturalized in almost every temperate and subtropical region of the globe. Its rapid growth and ability to thrive in highly polluted environments make it a common sight in cities.

Despite its ability to green urban spaces, the variety is widely classified as a noxious invasive weed. It easily displaces native flora and disrupts local ecosystems by forming dense monotypic stands.

Taxonomy

∟ царство Plantae
∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
∟ Angiosperms
∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
∟ eudicots
∟ core eudicots
∟ Superrosids
∟ rosids
∟ malvids
∟ order Sapindales
∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
∟ genus Ailanthus (Tree of heaven)
∟ species Ailanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven)
∟ variety Ailanthus altissima var. altissima (Typical tree of heaven)

Morphology

The morphology of Ailanthus altissima var. altissima features robust vegetative and reproductive organs:

Foliage: Large, odd-pinnate compound leaves can reach up to 90 centimeters in length and emit a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed.
Bark: The bark is light gray and smooth, developing shallow fissures as the tree matures.
Reproductive Structures: Large panicles of small yellow-green flowers yield vast numbers of dry, winged samaras that turn reddish-orange in late summer.

Flowering season

Late spring to early summer, peaking in June.

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Applications

Although widely regarded as an ecological threat, Ailanthus altissima var. altissima has historical and practical applications:

Traditional Chinese Medicine: The bark, roots, and leaves have been used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat ailments such as dysentery and fever.
Sericulture: In China, its leaves serve as the primary food source for the larvae of the Cynthia silkmoth (Samia cynthia), which produces a durable silk.
Phytoremediation: It is studied for its ability to absorb heavy metals and tolerate toxic soils in industrial waste areas.

Interesting facts

The tree of heaven has earned a reputation for its survival capabilities and cultural footprint:

Literary Fame: It is the central metaphor in Betty Smith's famous novel "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," symbolizing survival in harsh conditions.
Allelopathic Root Secretions: It secretes ailanthone into the surrounding soil, chemically preventing other plants from growing nearby.
Root Sprouting: Even if the main trunk is cut down, the extensive root system can produce numerous shoots that grow rapidly.

Geography of distribution

China
United States
Germany
France

Sources

POWO: Plants of the World Online (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew)
WFO: World Flora Online Consortium
GBIF: Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Technical Information

Taxon Synonyms: Choerospondias auriculata, Ailanthus rhodoptera, Ailanthus glandulosa, Ailanthus esquirolii, Ailanthus peregrina, Ailanthus vilmoriniana, Ailanthus giraldii, Rhus cacodendron, Ailanthus cacodendron, Ailanthus pongelion