Georgia Invasive Species Task Force

Tree of heaven

Ailanthus altissima (P. Mill.) Swingle

Evans, C.W., C.T. Bargeron, D.J. Moorhead & G.K. Douce. 2005. Invasive Weeds in Georgia. The Bugwood Network, The University of Georgia.

Tree of heaven is a rapidly growing small tree that usually grows to 40 feet but can reach up to 80 feet in height and 6 feet in diameter. It has pinnately compound leaves that are 1-4 feet in length with 10-41 leaflets. Tree of heaven resembles the sumacs and hickories, but is easily recognized by the glandular, notched base on each leaflet. The thick twigs are light brown in color and have large, heart-shaped leaf scars.

Tree of heaven is native to Asia and was first introduced into America in 1748 by a Pennsylvania gardener. It was widely planted in cities because of its ability to grow in poor conditions. Quickly escaping cultivation, tree of heaven has spread throughout the United States. In Georgia it occurs primarily in the northern half of the state.

The ability to reproduce both by seeds and by sprouts allows tree of heaven to spread and quickly dominate disturbed areas. It is extremely tolerant of poor soil conditions and has been known to grow even in cement cracks. It cannot grow in shaded conditions but thrives in disturbed forests or edges. Dense clonal thickets displace native species and can rapidly take over fields and meadows.

Recommended herbicides for control:
Trees: injection and cut stump – Garlon 3A, Pathway, PathFinder II, or Arsenal AC
Saplings: basal spray – Garlon 4 in oil and penetrant
Resprouts and seedlings: foliar spray – Arsenal AC, Krenite S, or Garlon 4

Photo by C. Bargeron, UGA