*Ailanthus altissima (P. Miller) Swingle. Tree-of-Heaven, Copal Tree, Stink-tree. Phen: Apr-Jun; Jul-Oct. Hab: Roadsides, forests, disturbed areas, including cities, especially in moist, fertile soils. Dist: Native of e. Asia. In our area, this tree is now an aggressive and noxious weed, colonizing even undisturbed forests and outcompeting the native vegetation.
ID notes: Ailanthus altissima can be recognized vegetatively by its large pinnately compound leaves, very stout twigs (often over 1 cm thick), and the characteristic and unpleasant odor of the crushed foliage.
Origin/Endemic status: E. and se. Asia
Synonymy ⓘ: = Ar, C, F, Fl4, G, GrPl, Il, K1, K3, K4, Mi, NcTx, NE, NY, Pa, RAB, S, Tat, Tn, Tx, Va, W, WH3; = Ailanthus glandulosus Desf. – S13
Wetland Indicator Status:
Heliophily ⓘ: 6
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