Tree of heaven
Ailanthus altissima · Simaroubaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around tree of heaven and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to July, discreet yellow-green flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 25 m in height
- Growth
- Very fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-25°C)
- Origin
- Northeastern China
- Soil type
- Indifferent, tolerates poor and degraded soils
Care
Sunlight
Plant your Ailanthus in full sun for optimal growth. It also tolerates partial shade but will develop more slowly. It's a pioneer species that adapts well to difficult, sunny environments.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to encourage root establishment. Once established, this very hardy tree tolerates drought well and only needs watering during prolonged periods without rain.
Soil and drainage
Ailanthus accepts practically all soil types: loamy, chalky, acidic or even contaminated. It prefers well-drained soil but tolerates temporary moisture. Its great adaptability is what makes it so strong.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or bothersome branches. Beware: Ailanthus regrows vigorously from the stump after cutting, which can create numerous sucker shoots. Prefer gentle, regular pruning.
Fertilizer
Undemanding, Ailanthus doesn't require any particular fertilization. An application of organic matter at planting time is sufficient. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers which promote overly exuberant growth.
Pests and diseases
Generally robust, Ailanthus can be attacked by weevils or whiteflies in warm climates. Fungal diseases remain rare thanks to its vitality. Watch mainly for excessive formation of root suckers.
Did you know?
Ailanthus was introduced to Europe in the 17th century and planted extensively in the 19th century as an ornamental species. Its extraordinary ability to colonize degraded land made it a symbol of urban resilience, notably immortalized in the novel 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' (1943). Today, it is considered an invasive species in many regions due to its rapid growth and spreading roots.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.