tree of heaven

an Asiatic tree, Ailanthus altissima, having large oblong leaves and rank-smelling flowers, often planted as a shade tree. Also called stinkweed.

[1835-45]

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Rapid-growing tree (Ailanthus altissima) in the quassia family (Simaroubaceae), native to China and widely naturalized elsewhere, with several known varieties.

Because of its resistance to pollution, freedom from insect predation and disease, and ability to grow in almost any soil, the tree of heaven is planted as a yard and street tree in urban centres. It grows to 60 ft (18 m) or more, producing long, compound leaves that emit an unpleasant odour when bruised. Male trees bear flowers with unpleasant scents. Female trees produce winged fruits which are tannish orange when ripe.

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▪ plant

also called  Copal Tree, or Varnish Tree 

      (Ailanthus altissima), rapid-growing tree, in the family Simaroubaceae, native to China but widely naturalized elsewhere. It has been planted as a yard and street tree in urban centres, because of its resistance to pollution, freedom from insects and disease, and ability to grow in almost any soil.

      The tree of heaven grows to 18 metres (60 feet) or more, producing long, many-parted leaves, which emit a rank odour when bruised. Male trees bear unpleasantly scented flowers. Female trees produce winged fruits, tannish orange when ripe. Several varieties are known, among them A. altissima sutchuenensis, with purplish leaf stalks and whitish underleaf, and A. altissima erythrocarpa, with brilliant red seed clusters.

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