Tall Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus excelsa)

Indian tree of heaven Plant of heaven High Ailanthus Ardusi Indian tree-of-heaven
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Ailanthus excelsa - Indian Tree of Heaven Care & Uses

Widely distributed across the arid and semi-arid regions of India and Sri Lanka, Ailanthus excelsa commands attention as a fast-growing, large deciduous tree. Commonly known as the Indian tree of heaven, it plays a vital role in agroforestry and soil stabilization along riverbanks.

The species is easily recognized by its robust stature and characteristic odor.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ Superrosids
  • ∟ rosids
  • ∟ malvids
  • ∟ order Sapindales
  • ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
  • ∟ genus Ailanthus (Tree of heaven)
  • ∟ species Ailanthus excelsa (Tall Tree of Heaven)

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Morphology

This deciduous tree typically reaches a height of 18 to 25 meters, featuring a straight trunk with light grey to yellowish, rough bark. The large, pinnately compound leaves are alternately arranged, measuring up to 90 cm in length and bearing 10 to 14 pairs of coarsely dentate leaflets.

Key botanical characteristics include:

  • Flowers: Small, yellowish-green flowers are produced in lax, drooping panicles, emitting an unpleasant odor that attracts pollinators.
  • Fruit: The fruit is a reddish or copper-brown, lanceolate samara, prominently veined and containing a single seed.
  • Bark: The bark is thick, fibrous, and possesses a bitter taste due to the presence of quassinoids.

Flowering season

Flowers from February to April

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Applications

The bark serves as a potent febrifuge in traditional medicine, frequently prescribed to alleviate asthma, bronchitis, and acute dysentery. A tonic made from the leaves and bark is traditionally administered to women after childbirth to relieve labor-related pains.

Beyond medicinal value, the lightweight wood is heavily utilized in the matchstick industry, as well as for making packing boxes, toys, and fishing floats. Furthermore, the tree acts as an effective green barrier against air pollution by trapping suspended particulate matter.

Interesting facts

In Tamil, this tree is called Pi-Nari Maram, which translates to 'stinking tree' due to the foul scent of its crushed leaves and flowers.

The leaves are also a favored food source for goats and host the larvae of the moth Phyllocnistis hagnopa.

Geography of distribution

  • India
  • Sri Lanka
  • Pakistan
  • Bangladesh

Sources

  • POWO: Plants of the World Online
  • GBIF: Global Biodiversity Information Facility
  • WFO: World Flora Online

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

White Siris

White Siris

Ailanthus triphysa

A tall evergreen rainforest tree native to Asia and Australia, famous for its aromatic halmaddi …

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