Road Survey of the Invasive Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) in Virginia

Tree of Heaven is common throughout the much of the eastern U.S.  This rapidly-growing tree can reach heights of 80’, and can quickly dominate plant communities.  Tree of Heaven produces chemicals in its roots that prevent other plant species from growing around it, thereby creating monocultural Tree of Heaven stands.  When crushed, leaves and other parts of the plant produce a very rancid odor.  This tree will grow most anywhere, including cracks in the sidewalk and in very dry areas.  Tree of Heaven is very difficult to control, as it spreads both by seed (it is a prolific seed producer) and by root suckering and resprouting.  When cut, the tree sends up large numbers of smaller shoots and root sprouts.  Tree of Heaven can be controlled with herbicides.  Herbicides, both foliar (e.g. glyphosate) and bark injection (e.g. triclopyr), may be effective if applied during summer.