Ailanthus altissima, also known as “Tree of Heaven”, is a unique species that has its origins in Eastern Asia. It can also be known as Sumac, Stinking Sumac, or Chinese Sumac. From the Simaroubaceae family, it is a vigorously growing tree and copious seeder that establishes dense stands. The tree height can reach 70 ft. Small branches and twigs have smooth, pale gray bark. The wood is coarse-grained and creamy white to light brown in color. It has similar working properties to Ash. Large, ornate clusters of small yellowish-green flowers are produced on the trees during June. In summer, flat, twisted, single-seeded winged fruits or samaras are produced on female trees and may remain on trees for long periods of time; individual trees may produce around 315,000 seeds per year.
