Giraldi's Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus giraldii)

Hairy Ailanthus Mao Chou Chun

Ailanthus giraldii (Mao Chou Chun) - Hairy Ailanthus Tree

Endemic to the mountainous forests of central and western China, this deciduous tree is highly adapted to temperate climates. Recognized by the Chinese name Mao Chou Chun, it stands out within its genus due to the distinct pubescence covering its foliage and twigs. The species thrives in open forests and montane valley systems, contributing to soil conservation on steep rocky slopes.

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 giraldii (Giraldi's Tree of Heaven)

Morphology

This deciduous tree grows to a height of 10 to 20 meters, featuring a straight trunk with relatively smooth bark. Unlike its close relatives, the petioles, leaf rachis, and leaflet veins are densely covered in fine, soft hairs. The large pinnate leaves can measure up to 60 to 90 centimeters in length and bear 11 to 17 pairs of lanceolate leaflets.

Small, yellowish-green flowers form large panicles at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a dry, winged samara that changes color from green to reddish-brown as it matures, allowing the seeds to be easily dispersed by the wind. The twigs are stout, showing prominent leaf scars and large lenticels along their length.

Flowering season

Yellowish-green flowers bloom from May to July.

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Applications

The wood is sometimes used in local construction and for making agricultural implements due to its fast growth rate and workability. In traditional Chinese forestry, it is utilized for afforestation on degraded slopes to prevent erosion. Extracts from the bark and leaves are also used in folk remedies, similar to other members of the genus.

Interesting facts

The epithet giraldii honors the Italian missionary and plant collector Giuseppe Giraldi, who gathered specimens in Shaanxi province during the late 19th century. Its Chinese name, Mao Chou Chun, directly translates to "hairy stinking cedar," referring to both its pubescent parts and the characteristic odor of its crushed leaves. The winged fruits can remain on the tree well into winter, providing visual interest after the leaves have fallen.

Geography of distribution

China

Sources

Flora of China (FOC): Comprehensive morphological description and distribution data.
Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Taxonomic validation and specimen records.
International Plant Names Index (IPNI): Publication details and author verification.