Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) on Jul 28, 2025
Submitter has sample
Description of specimen
I have two plants in my backyard, both of which are growing rapidly. Plant branches have approximately 9 paired leaflets growing perpendicular to stem and one leaf at the end (~19 total leafs per branch). Seems invasive based on growth rate and ability to thrive in unsupported conditions. I thought I killed one of the plants last summer but it grew back and is now 8-9 feet tall. Leaves have a very pungent smell, especially when disturbed/crushed up.
Thanks for the report. This is Tree of Heaven and you should control it. As you have seen, it is very good at re-sprouting and will do so from the roots as well.
Small plants can be dug out, but larger ones need to be treated with herbicide to kill the roots.
Please see the following for more control information:
https://tualatinswcd.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022_Tree-of-Heaven_BMP.pdf
https://solvepestproblems.oregonstate.edu/weeds/tree-of-heaven
Thanks,
Keith Nasman
Invasive Species Technician
Tualatin Soil & Water Conservation District
keith.nasman@tualatinswcd.org
Keith Nasman
Aug. 5, 2025, 3:27 a.m.