Why the Tree of Heaven is a Perfect Addition to Your Garden

The Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), also known as Chinese sumac or varnish tree, is a rapidly growing deciduous tree. It is native to China and Taiwan.

It tolerates various soil types, including poor, compacted, or polluted soils. It can thrive in urban areas, disturbed sites, roadsides, and abandoned lots.

It is considered invasive in many states. It outcompetes native plants by quickly colonizing disturbed areas and forming dense thickets that displace native species. 

This tree prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.

The Benefits of Planting a Tree of Heaven in Your Landscape

Suitable for Hardiness Zones 4 to 8, the tree can grow rapidly to heights of 50 to 70 feet or more. In ideal conditions, it can sometimes reach up to 100 feet.

The tree's leaves resemble sumac: large and compound, typically 1 to 3 feet long. Each leaf comprises 10 to 41 lance-shaped leaflets arranged along a central stem. 

The tree blooms in late spring to early summer (May to June), producing small, yellow-green flowers that grow in large clusters. Male flowers are often particularly smelly.

The tree produces winged seeds called samaras, similar to those of maple trees. The light brown to reddish seeds appear in large clusters and persist on the tree into winter.

Tree of Heaven Care Tips: How to Grow and Maintain This Hardy Tree

This tree grows very rapidly, often reaching full height within 10 to 20 years. In its early stages, it can grow up to 3 to 6 feet per year.

Tree Of Heaven's Life Span

Its lifespan is 30 to 70 years, which is short-lived for a tree. However, it will provide your yard or garden with much-needed shade while longer-lived trees mature.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Plant bare root trees during the dormant season in early spring or late fall (November through April). Dig the hole twice as wide as the roots so the soil is well-drained. Position the tree so the root flare is at or just above ground level. Fill the hole back with the soil you dug from and water. Maintain soil moisture, especially in the tree's early years, by providing deep, regular watering. Apply a 2-4 inch mulch away from the trunk at the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune trees during the first few seasons to establish strength and resilience, remove damaged branches, and continue maintenance pruning as the tree matures. Regularly inspect for pests and diseases and apply integrated pest management practices. Protect young trees from mechanical damage and extreme temperatures with tree guards, and stake them if necessary for support, removing the stakes after one or two years.

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